Dive! Tutukaka
Dive! Tutukaka
4.5
Scuba & SnorkellingEco ToursDolphin & Whale WatchingStand Up PaddleboardingKayaking & Canoeing
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view

About
Every day all year round boat trips to the Poor Knights Islands. Diving, snorkeling, dolphin watching, relaxing and sightseeing. The longest standing family-run dive company around; more boats, more choice, more room; we tailor the day to suit and are famous for our professional and friendly crew. Sea Shepherd Dive Centre - supporting our eco-warriors. PADI 5 Star Training Centre, salt-water pool on-site. Passionate about the environment, conservation, for divers, snorkelers, and sightseers.
Tutukaka, New Zealand
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
602 reviews
Excellent
496
Very good
71
Average
17
Poor
12
Terrible
6
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Nadja H
Vienna, Austria65 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
Great experience, we even saw orcas! The only negative point - the crew was super nice, but - with the exception of the skipper Hunter, who was really great - it seemed a bit like a school trip. What was particularly strange was that the crew members climbed onto the roof of the boat and/or into the safety boats to get the best view of the orcas while the guests crowded together and ended up having crew members in the foreground in many of the orca photos - doesn't seem particularly professional. Apart from that, everyone was super nice and tried hard and we had a great day!

Written 5 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Graham & Angie B
Auckland, New Zealand68 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
A family with 2 teenagers, a second visit to The Poor Knights Islands, on the Easter weekend.
A big thankyou to the skipper and crew of El Tigre.
The vessel is impeccable, there were 30 on board and no way overcrowded.
The guided dives with Brendan were fun and easy going.
The crew are very knowledgeable of the best dive sites, depending on weather conditions.
The dive briefings were very thorough.
Would highly recommend this organization, a well deserved 5 star PADI centre.
A definite for our return to the Poor Knights.
A big thankyou to the skipper and crew of El Tigre.
The vessel is impeccable, there were 30 on board and no way overcrowded.
The guided dives with Brendan were fun and easy going.
The crew are very knowledgeable of the best dive sites, depending on weather conditions.
The dive briefings were very thorough.
Would highly recommend this organization, a well deserved 5 star PADI centre.
A definite for our return to the Poor Knights.
Written 5 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Face_The_Elements
Edmonton, Canada343 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
I had a fantastic diving experience with Dive! Tutukaka. The staff was wonderful, providing thorough guidance throughout the process. Their shared insights about the Poor Knights island and marine life in the area which added to the dive. The dive site had an abundance of fish and sea life to explore. I highly recommend diving or snorkelling if you’re in Tutukaka!
Written 13 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Departure62824365979
2 contributions
Dec 2024 • Family
The process of welcoming and kitting up customers was very efficient and friendly. Overall I would rate the attention to safety as being very high.
The day we went out a moderate Southerly was blowing up to around 30k.
The Skipper elected to shelter for the entire day inside the Riki Riki cave. That is his call and his call alone. I accept that. However that meant no tour of the island, and a very ordinary dive /snorkel experience. Very disappointing for tourists and those who had not been before particularly.
If conditions were really so bad that is all that could be accomplished safely then I suggest the business should canceled for the day. Customers did not get value for money.
I can say I have been out in worse conditions with Dive Tutukaka and with Yukon Dive and safely toured the island and found dive spots in the lee. As I say the Skipper makes the call but if it was as bad as that the trip should have been cancelled.
The day we went out a moderate Southerly was blowing up to around 30k.
The Skipper elected to shelter for the entire day inside the Riki Riki cave. That is his call and his call alone. I accept that. However that meant no tour of the island, and a very ordinary dive /snorkel experience. Very disappointing for tourists and those who had not been before particularly.
If conditions were really so bad that is all that could be accomplished safely then I suggest the business should canceled for the day. Customers did not get value for money.
I can say I have been out in worse conditions with Dive Tutukaka and with Yukon Dive and safely toured the island and found dive spots in the lee. As I say the Skipper makes the call but if it was as bad as that the trip should have been cancelled.
Written 8 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emily S
Kerikeri, New Zealand2 contributions
Mar 2021
I had booked with a friend to go out for two dives. The weather on the day was marginal but obviously that is uncontrollable. However, what did shock me was that at no point did Dive Tutukaka advise any of the passengers of the bad weather conditions. As someone who works as a deckhand in the tourism industry our skippers always make sure everyone onboard is aware of the weather conditions if they are expecting it to be bad. Passengers are given the option to rebook if they are not comfortable. This is a huge safety concern as a lot of people on board were not expecting almost 3m swells.
We didn't make it far before the boat broke down. The crew took a long time before they decided to inform us what was going on. Everyone was rolling around in the swell while the crew ran up and down the stairs whispering to each other. Eventually we turned around and were told we wouldn't be making it out today, while the other dive boat continued on.
We were told if we still wanted to dive on this day we could join the Perfect Day boat but would only get one dive. On this boat the skipper also failed to inform about the weather conditions. There were a lot of young children screaming and crying on the way out, people vomiting and some families still too sick to get in the water after arriving. While out at the Poor Knights our dive guide was lovely but the other crew were more interested in talking to each other than interacting with passengers.
We asked reception before the Perfect Day trip if we were able to receive a partial refund and they said they would get back to us. After we returned from the trip they said there would be no refund, we were happy to pay for what we got but thought it was unfair to pay for a dive we didn't get to do due to the companies own mechanical issues. RIPPED OFF! Not worth what we paid and for a company who market themselves as award winning I expect more accommodating approach.
We didn't make it far before the boat broke down. The crew took a long time before they decided to inform us what was going on. Everyone was rolling around in the swell while the crew ran up and down the stairs whispering to each other. Eventually we turned around and were told we wouldn't be making it out today, while the other dive boat continued on.
We were told if we still wanted to dive on this day we could join the Perfect Day boat but would only get one dive. On this boat the skipper also failed to inform about the weather conditions. There were a lot of young children screaming and crying on the way out, people vomiting and some families still too sick to get in the water after arriving. While out at the Poor Knights our dive guide was lovely but the other crew were more interested in talking to each other than interacting with passengers.
We asked reception before the Perfect Day trip if we were able to receive a partial refund and they said they would get back to us. After we returned from the trip they said there would be no refund, we were happy to pay for what we got but thought it was unfair to pay for a dive we didn't get to do due to the companies own mechanical issues. RIPPED OFF! Not worth what we paid and for a company who market themselves as award winning I expect more accommodating approach.
Written 8 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Emily,
I am sorry your day was not what you expected, however, we specifically explained to you the options, as the boat returned with a mechanical fault, we offered you another trip that morning with a single dive option or a refund.
Same-day travel, with the same weather conditions, and I guess the assumption from us was that you understood the options when you agreed to continue your travel with us.
Apologies if you felt ripped off, as a peer in the industry-that is disappointing to hear.
If you choose to travel again with us, we will do our best again, to please you.
x
Kate
Written 12 February 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
RPW
Wellington, New Zealand1 contribution
Mar 2022 • Couples
After seeing the amazing reviews and photos online, myself and my partner were super excited to be joining the 'Perfect Day' cruise on our recent trip up North.
The staff were very friendly and professional throughout.
However, we couldn't help feel disappointed in the product we were given.
We were told it would take around an hour to get out to the Poor Knights Islands, where we would anchor down and find a place to snorkel, paddleboard and kayak as advertised.
Around 90 minutes had past and it was obvious we were struggling to find a spot due to the choppy conditions. By the end it felt like we were going around in circles.
We then got told that it too dangerous to kayak or paddleboard and they would to find us a place to snorkel which they eventually did.
After around 30 minutes in the water it was obvious that the swell was unberarable and the group were called in for safety purposes.
We were then swifly told we would be returning earlier than planned as the conditions were getting worse by the second.
After what can be described as a 'slightly' bumpy and uncomfortable journey back to shore, we expected there to be an offer of a partial refund or a gesture of goodwill as we did not get to experience what we had seen advertised.
Instead we were thanked for coming and that was it. There wasn't even much in the way of apology either.
We felt totally let down especially after the price we paid. (Not cheap)
We understand the weather can cause a factor but surely the conditions were known before we set off. We would have rather them postpone to another day instead to give us the best experience possible.
We have since contacted Dive and have been offered another day free of charge, however we are from Wellington so it's not just a case of popping back next week.
We love supporting local Kiwi businesses and chose Dive because of their stellar reputation.
But we thought our experience could have been handled a lot better.
The staff were very friendly and professional throughout.
However, we couldn't help feel disappointed in the product we were given.
We were told it would take around an hour to get out to the Poor Knights Islands, where we would anchor down and find a place to snorkel, paddleboard and kayak as advertised.
Around 90 minutes had past and it was obvious we were struggling to find a spot due to the choppy conditions. By the end it felt like we were going around in circles.
We then got told that it too dangerous to kayak or paddleboard and they would to find us a place to snorkel which they eventually did.
After around 30 minutes in the water it was obvious that the swell was unberarable and the group were called in for safety purposes.
We were then swifly told we would be returning earlier than planned as the conditions were getting worse by the second.
After what can be described as a 'slightly' bumpy and uncomfortable journey back to shore, we expected there to be an offer of a partial refund or a gesture of goodwill as we did not get to experience what we had seen advertised.
Instead we were thanked for coming and that was it. There wasn't even much in the way of apology either.
We felt totally let down especially after the price we paid. (Not cheap)
We understand the weather can cause a factor but surely the conditions were known before we set off. We would have rather them postpone to another day instead to give us the best experience possible.
We have since contacted Dive and have been offered another day free of charge, however we are from Wellington so it's not just a case of popping back next week.
We love supporting local Kiwi businesses and chose Dive because of their stellar reputation.
But we thought our experience could have been handled a lot better.
Written 14 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks, Oribay1,
We do our best and acknowledge that at times we don't always hit our target. The weather and marine conditions certainly are elements that at times beat us. Your safety is paramount and sometimes our crew has to call it short to ensure your comfort.
We apologize that you did not experience a day that measured up to your expectations and still stand by our offer to redo the experience. That won't expire, so if you get a chance to head up from Wellington, we would love to see you.
x
Kate
Written 26 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
917fosterp
2 contributions
Jan 2023
My daughter and I just did our Open Water PADI with Dive! Tutukaka and I can't say enough good things about them. A warm and welcoming team. Awesomely knowledgeable and supportive instructors who made the who experience outstanding. A slick well run operation made the course and boat dives so easy and fun. The Poor Knights are off the hook amazing and well worth the boat ride even when its rough. We can't wait to get back there and get a few more dives in with these great folks at that special place.
Written 2 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Love that you rate the Poor Knights as "off the hook"! That is epic!
Stoked you both learned to dive in the best little marine reserve on the planet.
x
Keep diving!!
Kate
Written 14 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jokiwigirl
Auckland Central, New Zealand77 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
Finally ticked this iconic NZ experience off my bucket list. It was everything I’d hoped for. Dive Tutukaka customer service was excellent from the moment of my first enquiry. On the trip, staff were professional and attentive. Our Guide Sharon took great care of us, briefing us thoroughly and keeping a safe eye on us during both dives. I thoroughly recommend the packed lunch and the hot drinks between dives were gratefully received. We had an awesome day, thank you.
Written 29 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lyndell
38 contributions
Jan 2021 • Friends
This is the most amazing trip! The underwater world at the Poor Knights is just Epic. The crew were 2nd to none. They were consistently all there to help each person have the best day... and we did! Thanks Crew! I had previously had a phobia about swimming with fish and the young crew girl quietly talked me through and I’m ecstatic that I not only over came it but saw a whole new world underneath the water. My elderly dad wasn’t upto doing much so one of the crew took him and quietly kayaked him all around so he too could enter in.
Lunch was impressive. Sandwich and 3 salads, and plenty to go around our full boat. Thanks so very much.. a day to remember...
Lunch was impressive. Sandwich and 3 salads, and plenty to go around our full boat. Thanks so very much.. a day to remember...
Written 12 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tylerb132
3 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
I approached Dive! Tutukaka With the sole intention of somehow proposing to my partner.. Dive! Not only accommodated my needs but exceeded expectations and helped me make my proposal teeeeeeeen times better with the lovely Emma guiding us along the way, she made sure we were in the right place in case we needed to ascend quickly and recognized our skill level so that she could personalize our experience (must've been my smooth buoyancy skills 🥴
The dive site was empty regardless of it being the tale end of high season. And the water was warm and clear.
Skipper Super Scuba Steve knew just about everything about the area and was more than happy to take care of a few local tourists and was a brilliant at telling a good yarn in-between dives. All said and done, I couldn't have hoped for a better outcome, Top customer care. Top experience. Heaps good
She even said yes! 🤙🤙🤙Shakaz all around. Mucho gracias Dive! Tutukaka.
The dive site was empty regardless of it being the tale end of high season. And the water was warm and clear.
Skipper Super Scuba Steve knew just about everything about the area and was more than happy to take care of a few local tourists and was a brilliant at telling a good yarn in-between dives. All said and done, I couldn't have hoped for a better outcome, Top customer care. Top experience. Heaps good
She even said yes! 🤙🤙🤙Shakaz all around. Mucho gracias Dive! Tutukaka.
Written 24 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My husband and I have a dive day reserved through Down Under Endeavors on December 3 of this year. We want to verify what medical documents you need. We are 67 and 70 years old and have been certified since 2016 with SSI. We each have 30 dives with our dive books stamped. We have the PADI medical statements signed by our doctor in June of this year. They are not notarized or stamped however, just the doctor's signature and date. I ask this question because we had scheduled a dive trip in the Galapagos this past July and were denied on the day before because the forms didn't have a seal. We were very disappointed and want to make sure that the medical paperwork we have is sufficient to diving at Poor Knights Island. Thank you. Sharon Colbert (From Houston Texas)
Written 11 October 2019
Hi Sharon,
You will be totally fine with Dive! Tutukaka and the Poor Knights Islands will NOT disappoint, you will LOVE it,
x
Kate
Written 17 October 2019
Hi! How many divers are on a boat for a daytrip (maximum)?
Written 2 January 2019
Hi - Dive! Tutukaka and Perfect Day have six boats - and they all have different MNZ number limits - some from 20 and the biggest is 75. But you always get lots of love, and the groups are small, and crew numbers high. =) Most groups are in three buddy pairs with an instructor - and more boats means more choice, more room, and the day is tailored to suit your needs. x
Written 3 January 2019
Is there only one starting time @Dive Tutukaka. Just the 8:15 AM slot?
Written 3 February 2018
The dive boats leave as close to 9am as possible - but there is a snorkel trip that leaves at 11am - were you wanted a dive, or happy to snorkel, kayak and stand up paddle board?
Written 3 February 2018
Glad to hear it was amazing. Even I am contemplating to visit it. could you let me know in which website you made the reservations?
Written 1 February 2018
As someone already said, go with Dive! Tutukaka, have been very happy with them
Written 12 February 2018
Hi, i'm planning for a dive trip this upcoming summer, and was wondering if i would need a dive hood or gloves.
Written 18 July 2016
Yes, you would need hood and gloves... We were there in summer and the temp. was about 21c... OK for the first few minutes, but it really gets cold as you go down. Why be miserable? Hood and gloves are easy! FYI, the instructors actually dive with dry suits!
Written 19 July 2016
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