If you’ve been diving with us over the past six months, there’s a good chance you’ll already recognise me. I’ve been around the shop, helping out, learning the ropes, and spending as much time in the water as possible. Now I’m excited to officially introduce myself as one of your instructors!
Scuba diving wasn’t always part of the plan. It wasn’t until I finished university at Otago that I found myself thinking, “Huh… scuba diving seems like something cool to do.” That one thought completely changed the direction I was heading. At the beginning of 2025, I jumped straight into my diploma course. It was an incredible journey filled with plenty of learning, challenges, and unforgettable dives. By the end of it, I had earned my PADI Open Water Specialty Instructor certification, and I haven’t looked back since.
Like all good divers, I am passionate about protecting our oceans. As an ocean advocate, I believe every dive is an opportunity to appreciate and care for the incredible underwater world. While your typical Wellington diver is usually nudi (branch) obsessed, I tend to be drawn to the bigger animals. If there’s a sea lion cruising past, an octopus tucked into a crack, or a shark in the distance, that’s where my attention will be! I also have a bit of a soft spot for the weird little treasures hiding on the seafloor, you can often find me admiring old bottles, and other quirky relics (I love rusty spoons!) that tell a story from dives gone by .
As I continue growing as an instructor, one thing I’m especially excited about is teaching Rescue Diver and Divemaster courses. Helping divers build confidence, develop their skills, and take the next step in their diving journey is something I’d absolutely love to be part of. So if you’ve been thinking about signing up for a Rescue or Divemaster course… This is your sign! I’d love to be your instructor.
So if you’re ever out diving with us, look for the split fins and come say hi. I’m so excited to continue diving with familiar faces and to meet plenty of new ones along the way.
I can’t wait to get underwater with you!
Phoebe