Best for beginner divers, 18-20m, shore & boat entry.
Pōhatu, also known as Flea Bay, is a marine reserve on the outer Banks Peninsula featuring extensive kelp forests and rocky reef topography. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths between 18 and 20 metres, with visibility typically ranging from 5 to 10 metres. The site is suitable for beginners, though visitors should be prepared for cold water temperatures between 10C and 16C and potential hazards including surge, surf, rip currents, and boat traffic. Entry is possible from both shore and boat. The habitat supports a variety of temperate marine life, including various reef fish, crustaceans, and cephalopods common to the region.
-43.87054, 173.00601
The road to the reserve reaches nearly 600 meters above sea level, so plan dives and surface times carefully to avoid decompression sickness during the drive out.
Accessible by boat or from a 4WD track. Take State Highway 75 to Akaroa, then the gravel Lighthouse Road up to the Flea Bay Road turnoff.
Recorded at this site
Depth
18-20m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore & Boat
Water Temp
10-16°C
Best Time
Year-round
The site's kelp forest and reef habitat supports a range of temperate marine life, including various species of fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates typical of the region.
Yes, the site is rated as suitable for beginner divers.
The diving depth at this site is between 18 and 20 metres.
Yes, Pōhatu is highly rated for snorkelling with a rating of 5 out of 5.
Entry to the water can be made from both the shore and by boat.
Conditions vary with visibility between 5 and 10 metres. Hazards include cold water, surge, surf, rip currents, and boat traffic.
Diving at Pōhatu / Flea Bay in Akaroa requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A drysuit recommended is recommended for diving at Pōhatu / Flea Bay in Akaroa. Water temperatures range from 10°C to 16°C.
The best months to visit Pōhatu / Flea Bay in Akaroa are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, and December. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
