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New Zealand is a paradise for underwater sports enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities that cater to different skill levels and interests. From diving to snorkelling, kayaking, and even underwater hockey, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore the stunning New Zealand underwater environment. Divers from all over the world flock to NZ to experience its clear waters and unique marine life. Learn more in the paragraphs below.
Snorkelling is a popular underwater activity in New Zealand, offering the chance to explore the country’s stunning coastal environment and observe its unique marine life. Some of the best snorkelling spots in New Zealand include the Poor Knights Islands Marine Reserve, the Abel Tasman National Park, the Bay of Islands, and the Coromandel Peninsula.
Snorkelling in New Zealand gives you a chance to see a variety of marine life, such as colourful fish, rays, octopuses, and even dolphins and seals in some areas. Always snorkel with a buddy and stay within your limits. Check local weather and water conditions before entering the water, and avoid snorkelling in areas with strong currents or waves.
Kayaking is one of the popular underwater sports used to explore the stunning coastal environment of New Zealand. With over 15,000 kilometres of coastline, there are many scenic and exciting spots to paddle, from calm bays to challenging open waters. Some of the best kayaking spots in New Zealand include the Abel Tasman National Park, Milford Sound, the Bay of Islands, and the Coromandel Peninsula.
Kayaking in NZ allows you the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, penguins, and even whales, in some areas. There are many underwater sports tour operators in New Zealand that offer kayaking tours and equipment rental, making it easy to enjoy this activity even if you don’t have your gear.
Underwater hockey, also known as Octopush, is one of the most popular underwater sports in New Zealand, with a vibrant community of players and clubs throughout the country.
The sport involves two teams of six players, who compete to maneuver a puck across the bottom of a swimming pool and score goals in the opposing team’s goal. Players wear snorkelling gear, fins, and a diving mask to facilitate their movements underwater.
Like there are safety regulations in land sports, we have the same in underwater sports. New Zealand has strict safety and regulatory standards for diving, designed to ensure the safety of divers and protect the marine environment.
Divers in New Zealand must have a recognized diving certification from an accredited agency, such as PADI or SSI. It is compulsory for underwater sports. They must also comply with the Diving Regulations 2011, which sets out safety standards and requirements for diving operations in New Zealand.
In addition to these, many dive operators and clubs in New Zealand offer underwater sports training, equipment rental, and guided dive tours, which can help ensure a safe and enjoyable diving experience.
