Dive Equipment in New Zealand: A Beginner’s Guide

Diving is a popular activity in New Zealand, with many people enjoying the opportunity to explore the country’s stunning underwater world. If you’re thinking of taking the plunge, you’ll need to make sure you have the right equipment. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take a look at some of the essential dive equipment you’ll need for diving in New Zealand.

Wetsuit

A wetsuit is an essential piece of dive equipment, as it will help to keep you warm in the water. New Zealand’s waters can be quite chilly, even in summer, so a good wetsuit is essential. You’ll also need a wetsuit if you’re planning on diving in any of the country’s freshwater lakes or rivers.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a wetsuit, such as the thickness of the neoprene, the type of closure (zip or Velcro) and the fit. It’s important to choose a wetsuit that fits well, as a poorly fitting wetsuit can be uncomfortable and restrict your movement.

If you’re not sure what type of wetsuit to choose, it’s a good idea to speak to a dive professional or someone who has experience diving in New Zealand. They’ll be able to advise you on the best type of wetsuit for the conditions you’ll be diving in.

Mask and Snorkel

A mask and snorkel are other essential pieces of dive equipment. Your mask will help you to see underwater, while your snorkel will allow you to breathe without having to come up for air.

When choosing a mask, it’s important to find one that fits well and doesn’t leak. You should also make sure that the mask has a comfortable skirt that doesn’t irritate your skin.

It’s also a good idea to choose a mask with a purge valve, as this will make it easier to clear water from your mask if it does leak.

As for snorkels, there are a few different types to choose from. A traditional snorkel is fine for most people, but if you’re a more experienced diver, you might prefer a dry snorkel. This type of snorkel has a valve at the top that prevents water from entering, making it ideal for diving in rougher conditions.

Fins

Fins are another important piece of dive equipment, as they help you to move through the water more easily. There are a few different types of fins to choose from, but the most popular type is the split fin. These fins are designed to create less resistance when you’re swimming, making them ideal for diving.

When choosing fins, it’s important to find a pair that fits well. Fins that are too big or too small can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to swim. You should also make sure that the fins you choose are suitable for the type of diving you’ll be doing. For example, if you’re planning on diving in a reef, you’ll need fins that are designed for this type of environment.

Regulator

A regulator is a vital piece of dive equipment, as it allows you to breathe underwater. There are a few different types of regulators to choose from, but the most popular type is the demand valve regulator. This type of regulator delivers air on demand, meaning you only have to breathe when you want to.

When choosing a regulator, it’s important to find one that is comfortable to use and easy to breathe from. You should also make sure that the regulator you choose is compatible with the type of diving you’ll be doing. For example, if you’re planning on diving in cold water, you’ll need a regulator that is designed for this type of environment.

BCD

A BCD (buoyancy control device) is another essential piece of dive equipment. This device helps to keep you buoyant in the water, making it easier to float and move around. There are a few different types of BCDs to choose from, but the most popular type is the jacket BCD. This type of BCD fits around your upper body like a jacket, making it easy to move in and out of the water.

When choosing a BCD, it’s important to find one that fits well and is comfortable to wear. You should also make sure that the BCD you choose is compatible with the type of diving you’ll be doing. For example, if you’re planning on diving in a dry suit, you’ll need a BCD that is designed for this type of environment.

Dive Computer

A dive computer