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	<title>DiveHQ Christchurch &#187; Diver</title>
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	<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog</link>
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		<title>Competition time! Oceanic Geo 2</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=830</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=830#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 01 Jul 2018 08:00:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Instructor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SCUBA Dive Gear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#divehq]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#divehqchristchurch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#lovetodive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#loveyourjob #padi #scuba #divehq]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive shop Christchurch]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=830</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="400" height="400" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/geo2.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="geo2" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">Oceanic Geo 2 The Oceanic Geo 2 is a great entry level wrist mounted computer. So stylish you could wear it in and out of the water. The wide selection of colours will allow you to match your outfit whether it be on a tropical beach or penetrating a wreck at 30 metres under torch [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="400" height="400" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/geo2.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="geo2" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p><strong>Oceanic Geo 2</strong></p>
<p>The <a href="http://http://scubagear.co.nz/product/793-Oceanic-Geo-2-0">Oceanic Geo 2</a> is a great entry level wrist mounted computer. So stylish you could wear it in and out of the water. The wide selection of colours will allow you to match your outfit whether it be on a tropical beach or penetrating a wreck at 30 metres under torch light. A simplistic menu orientation and 4 buttons allow for ease of use. Capable of adjusting for enriched air levels right up to 100% O2 with separate gas mixes. For the first-time dive computer buyers, not being restricted to where the high-pressure hose can reach gives you an unfamiliar feeling of freedom.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/geo2.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-831" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/geo2-300x300.jpg" alt="geo2" width="300" height="300" /></a>The display itself is simple and easy to understand (paired with a lovely laminated instruction for use card). Getting in the water needs no effort aside from securely attaching it to your wrist. (or leg we won’t judge you for it.) Whilst in the water, reading the display is very straight forward, everything important is right in front of my eyes. My depth, bottom time, no decompression limit, ascent rate meter and tissue loading graph. Probably my favourite thing is not having to scroll through the entire list of dives or options like those single button operation computers. If I just happen to miss what I’m looking for because I hit the button one time too many I can scroll backwards! Get rid of the console computer and your old G-Shock at the same time and purchase one of these gems.</p>
<p>Features Include:</p>
<ul>
<li>The Geo 2.0 Dive Computer is powered by Oceanic&#8217;s Exclusive Dual Algorithm™ &#8211; Your choice between Pelagic DSAT (Spencer/Powell data basis) or Pelagic Z+ (Buhlmann ZHL-16C data basis)</li>
<li>Operating Modes: WATCH (Alternate Time, Chrono, Daily Alarm, Countdown Timer), NORM (Air and Nitrox), GAUGE (with run timer) and FREE (tracks calculations to allow switching between NORM and Free)</li>
<li>User-Friendly Interface with &#8220;Step Back&#8221; – allows forward and backward navigation through menus and settings</li>
<li>Switch between up to 2 Nitrox mixes to 100% O2 with no restriction (Gas 1 may be up to 100%, and may be less or greater than Gas 2)</li>
<li>Stop times &lt;3 minutes &#8211; displays minutes &amp; seconds Deep Stop with Countdown Timer – Maybe turned on or off. 2-minute countdown at half your max depth, for dives greater than 80 ft / 25m</li>
<li>Single button access to &#8220;Last Dive&#8221; display (max depth&amp; bottom time)</li>
<li>Data Retention &#8211; maintains calculations indefinitely when the battery is changed</li>
<li>The Geo 2.0 dive computer has an audible alarm with flashing LED light</li>
<li>24 dive on-unit log book</li>
<li>History Mode includes total number of dives, max depth, total dive hours, and lowest temp</li>
<li>The Geo 2.0 comes with optional PC Interface with OceanLog Download and Settings Upload</li>
<li>Firmware Auto-Update: download and install the latest firmware – these may be operational improvements or even new features</li>
</ul>
<p>Spend $100 in store and go into the draw to win one of these awesome computers! Competition running for different prizes, each month, for the next 12 months! Score!</p>
</p>]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=830</wfw:commentRss>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Will you be my Dive Buddy?</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=662</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=662#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2016 20:17:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Centres Christchurch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learn to Dive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[buddy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[check]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dive buddy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Zealand Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[safe diving tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=662</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="678" height="1024" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/USA-Tour_2011_0141-678x1024.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="USA Tour" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">Desirable Dive Buddies have many important qualities, of course there is the fun factor, but really the reason for a dive buddy is simple &#8211; Safety! Finding the right person to share the adventure of diving with can make a huge difference to your experience. Learning to be a good diver should include learning to be [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="678" height="1024" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/USA-Tour_2011_0141-678x1024.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="USA Tour" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><h2>Desirable Dive Buddies have many important qualities, of course there is the fun factor, but really the reason for a dive buddy is simple &#8211; Safety!</h2>
<p>Finding the right person to share the adventure of diving with can make a huge difference to your experience. Learning to be a good diver should include learning to be a good buddy diver too, however too often it seems the more experienced a diver becomes, the more they forget some of the fundamentals of diving safely and considerately with your dive buddy. Do you still remember to do a Buddy Check?  Dive your Plan and Plan your Dive? How about doing a dive brief and a de-brief?</p>
<p>One of the best ways to find a good dive buddy is to be a good one in the first place!  Another tip is to consider how they behavior out of water, and you should get a picture of what kind of dive buddy they will be!</p>
<p><strong>Want to Meet New Dive Buddies?<br />
</strong>Joining onto a dive trip, or enrolling in a dive course are some of the best ways to meet a dive buddy. Enquire with <a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong>Dive HQ Christchurch</strong></a> for trips to Akaroa Peninsula, Kaikoura, Motenau, as well as the Solomons in 2018!</p>
<p><strong>The Best Buddies are:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Patient</strong> &#8211; Are they a patient person, or do they hurry through tasks and take short cuts.  Will they wait for you if you have a problem or will they make you feel rushed? Diving with someone who tells you to hurry up, can lead to stress and mistakes.<br />
<strong>Aware</strong> &#8211; Are they aware of their environment and others? Will they be able to spot dangers, or attractions and avoid getting lost.  Will they be aware of you, or will they ignore you under the water and go into their own world!<br />
<strong>Positive</strong>  &#8211; What attitude do they bring to your dive? Are the positive and do they enjoy diving, will they be enthused about similar things to you and want to share in the enjoyment.<br />
<strong>Good Communicators</strong> &#8211; Do they take the time to talk about the dive plan with you, and plan who will lead, or will you dive side by side. Do you plan what you will do if you lose each other?<br />
<strong>Respectful</strong> &#8211; Are they a respectful person, to others and to their environment?  Or do they only think of their own needs, and do as they please during a dive rather than consider you and the surroundings.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-665" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/IMG_6080-1024x683.jpg" alt="img_6080" width="1024" height="683" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Buddies to Beware of:</strong></p>
<p>Buddies who won&#8217;t do a buddy check!<br />
Buddies that go down or surface without you!<br />
Buddies that don&#8217;t dive to plan.<br />
Buddies that don&#8217;t dive close to you<br />
Buddies that get into underwater arguments!<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-666" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ChanIsl_Mar07_1124-1024x683.jpg" alt="PADI University Program Channel Islands Shoot March 24-29, 2007" width="1024" height="683" /></p>
<p><strong>Why Bother with a Buddy?</strong></p>
<p>Aside from the enjoyment of sharing the dive experience with someone, there are a number of scenarios where you would count your lucky star fish that you have a buddy to help, including:</p>
<p>Worst case &#8211; Out-of-air emergency<br />
Low on air<br />
Getting trapped in ropes/seaweed/net<br />
Equipment failure<br />
Illness or medical emergency<br />
Getting caught in a current<br />
Leg cramps<br />
Getting lost<br />
Feeling narked and making poor decisions<br />
Feeling panicked</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ChanIsl_Mar07_1338.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-667" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/ChanIsl_Mar07_1338-1024x683.jpg" alt="PADI University Program Channel Islands Shoot March 24-29, 2007" width="1024" height="683" /></a> <a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/USA-Tour_2011_0141.jpg"><br />
</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>HAVE YOU EVER?</strong></p>
<p>Lost your dive buddy while taking photos or spearfishing?<br />
Had cramp in your leg while diving, but had no one to massage it for you?<br />
Surfaced without your buddy?<br />
Started a dive without doing a buddy check?<br />
Spent a whole dive chasing your buddy&#8217;s fins just to keep up with them?<br />
Forgotten to turn on your tank &#8211; clear sign of forgetting the buddy check!<br />
Come to the surface after a dive and found only one of you saw lots of cool stuff while the other missed it?<br />
Had an underwater argument?<br />
Felt that your buddy has put your safety at risk while diving?</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-669" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/USA-Tour_2011_0431-1024x678.jpg" alt="USA Tour" width="1024" height="678" /></p>
<p><b>Let&#8217;s keep the Dive Buddy standard a high one and enjoy safe diving together.<br />
To find out more about dive trips and courses contact:<br />
</b>Dive HQ Christchurch<br />
103 Durham St South<br />
Sydenham<br />
Christchurch<br />
Call 0800 DIVEHQ (348347)<br />
<a title="Dive HQ Christchurch" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/" target="_blank"><strong>www.diveskiworld.co.nz</strong></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</p>]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=662</wfw:commentRss>
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		<item>
		<title>Is diving for you? FAQs</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=640</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=640#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Sep 2016 03:22:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Centres Christchurch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learn to Dive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SCUBA Dive Gear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=640</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/IMG_6359-1024x683.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Divers are cool" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">Are you considering enrolling on a scuba diving course, but not yet entirely sure whether it is for you? Breathing underwater is not a natural human trait, but once you have experienced it – believe us – you won’t want to go back. Here, we aim to answer some of the questions you may have [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/IMG_6359-1024x683.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Divers are cool" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p><em>Are you considering enrolling on a scuba diving course, but not yet entirely sure whether it is for you? Breathing underwater is not a natural human trait, but once you have experienced it – believe us – you won’t want to go back.</em></p>
<p><em>Here, we aim to answer some of the questions you may have before jumping into the deep.</em></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>I really want to learn to dive, but know nothing about scuba. Is this a problem?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>You do not need to have any knowledge about diving prior to starting your PADI course. The theory and practical sections are designed to teach you everything you need to know!</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>I am not much of a reader. Will this make the theory difficult for me?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>The PADI Open Water Course caters to students from the age of 10. The book is designed to be an easy read for all students. It isn’t just text, but images, quizzes, and schematics too, along with a series of videos on DVD. There is also an online version (<strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="http://www.padi.com/padi-courses/padi-elearning-program-offerings" target="_blank">eLearning</a></span></strong>), if you prefer to be computer or tablet based. If you are worried about the theory, you can always leave yourself plenty of time, and discuss extra sessions with your instructor.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/eLearning-decision-tree.png"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-646" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/eLearning-decision-tree-1024x792.png" alt="elearning-decision-tree" width="1024" height="792" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Do I need to be a strong swimmer?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>You do not have to be an Olympic swimmer to learn to scuba dive, however you will have to pass a swim test at the beginning of the course. You do not have to know how to swim well, you will just have to be able to go 200m without stopping. You also have to be able to tread water/float for 10 minutes.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>How long will my certification last?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>The great thing about a PADI certification is that it never expires! However, once you are certified, if you go a long period without diving, we recommend you take a refresher to go ever your skills with a trained professional. Or you could consider the <span style="text-decoration: underline; color: #3366ff;"><strong><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www2.padi.com/blog/2014/11/21/refresh-your-scuba-skills-with-padi-reactivate/" target="_blank">PADI ReActivate</a></strong></span> program!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/8.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-656" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/8-1024x680.jpg" alt="8" width="1024" height="680" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>How long does the course run for?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>At Dive HQ Christchurch, the course runs over two weekends. The first is a theory and pool weekend, the second is for the four required open water dives. All are full days. This may differ in places.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>I wear glasses/contacts. Can I still dive?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>There is no reason why your eyesight should prevent you from diving. If you cannot go without any form of corrective lenses, there are several options for you. You <em>can </em>wear contacts while diving. It is important to find a mask that fits you well, to avoid any leaks (purchasing your own would be my advice). During the course you will have to flood and remove your mask. Inform your instructor that you wear contacts, and you will be able to perform the skills with your eyes kept shut.</p>
<p>If contacts are not an option for you, it is possible to get lenses suited to you prescription fitted in most masks. We can organise this in store. We also have a few masks with a selection of <strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/product/696-Optical-Lens-for-ion-mask" target="_blank">prescription lenses</a></span></strong> that we can fit on the spot, such as Oceanic&#8217;s <strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/product/695-Ion-4-Mask" target="_blank">ion 4 mask</a></span></strong>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Ion-4-Blue-Front.jpg"><img class="  aligncenter wp-image-650 size-medium" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Ion-4-Blue-Front-300x300.jpg" alt="ion-4-blue-front" width="300" height="300" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>What about sharks?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Sharks are awesome! Chances are, you won’t get to see one on your open water course, but if you are that lucky then enjoy the experience! Sharks are generally very passive and peaceful creatures, and you have no reason to fear them.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/shark-1454245_1280.png"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-648 size-medium" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/shark-1454245_1280-274x300.png" alt="shark" width="274" height="300" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you would like to experience breathing underwater before enrolling onto the Open Water Course, we offer try dives where you can trial the gear, take your first breath underwater, and attempt some skills with an instructor. Inquire for more info!</p>
<p><em> It is completely normal to have queries before learning to dive. If there is anything you are wondering about, or any questions you would like answered before enrolling on an<strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"> <a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/dive-courses/open-water" target="_blank">Open Water Diver Course</a></span></strong>, then do not hesitate to get in touch with us! We can talk you through how the course will be run, and everything it will entail. </em></p>
<p><strong>Call us on (03) 379 5804, email us at sales@diveskiworld.co.nz, or visit us in the Dive HQ Christchurch shop at 103 Durham St South!</strong></p>
</p>]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?feed=rss2&#038;p=640</wfw:commentRss>
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		<item>
		<title>Diving Jobs: Exploring the Unusual</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=619</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=619#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 11 Sep 2016 21:40:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Centres Christchurch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Course]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Instructor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Free Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving Careers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Underwater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Underwater Photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#scuba]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[archaeology]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Careers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dream job]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[job]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[live the dream]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[model]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=619</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="600" height="315" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dream-job-just-ahead.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="dream-job-just-ahead" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">Waking up in the morning to leave for a job that you love is everyone’s dream. Not dragging your feet, no dreading feeling in your stomach – they say that ‘he who loves his job never works a day in his life’ and I’d say I would have to agree. However, finding a job that [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="600" height="315" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/dream-job-just-ahead.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="dream-job-just-ahead" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p>Waking up in the morning to leave for a job that you love is everyone’s dream. Not dragging your feet, no dreading feeling in your stomach – they say that ‘he who loves his job never works a day in his life’ and I’d say I would have to agree. However, finding a job that you are passionate about, <em>and</em> can remain so, can be a bit of a challenge.</p>
<p>It seems that jobs such as diving instructor, ski instructor, crewing on yachts, and working for the likes of Lego, Google etc. are often classified as ‘dream jobs’. I would say any arrangement that combines your favourite hobby with a profession could be said to be a dream job. But maybe we can broaden our horizons and think even more outside the box? If it is a career in diving that interests you, there are more opportunities out there than you might think!</p>
<p>Obviously there are the jobs that spring to mind immediately, such as underwater photographer and commercial diver, however whatever your interest may be, there is a subject for it: marine life, education, construction, conservation… Here are a few of the wackiest ones for you to choose from:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ol>
<li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Underwater Pizza Delivery Boy</span></li>
</ol>
<p>Yup, you read that right. There is an underwater lodge in Florida – a converted research lab – where the services include a delivery service! It is not uncommon for guests to request their dinner be delivered. The job involves collecting dinner (or whatever needs delivering) and placing it in an air-tight box, gearing up, and heading the 6.4m down to the air-lock hatch situated under the lodge. Voila! That’s one deep dish for you.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/jules-undersea-lodge-underwater-pizza-delivery.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-623" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/jules-undersea-lodge-underwater-pizza-delivery.jpg" alt="jules-undersea-lodge-underwater-pizza-delivery" width="1000" height="667" /></a></p>
<ol start="2">
<li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Marine Archaeologist </span></li>
</ol>
<p>Are you interested in both history and science, along with a passion for diving and the ocean? Then maybe this is the job for you! Explore shipwrecks and lost underwater cities in order to gain a better understanding of the past. You need to have studied archaeology (duh) and be a proficient diver in order to land a job in the field… but if you do, you could end up doing some seriously awesome research, like scrutinizing the remains of pirate/privateer shipwrecks to establish more facts on their era!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/c02404a95a76ff06d1384075ce1db4a6.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-626" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/c02404a95a76ff06d1384075ce1db4a6.jpg" alt="Underwater city" width="554" height="415" /></a></p>
<ol start="3">
<li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Underwater Model</span></li>
</ol>
<p>Looking amazing underwater definitely requires a significant amount of skill. You need to be relaxed, comfortable in the water, and constantly aware of your positioning to make it in the underwater model world. Although it does not require any specific qualifications to get started down this career path, being a qualified diver is a start. Getting in to freediving and breath hold is a plus, as you will need to be able to hold your breath without looking like a puffer-fish! If this is a profession that interests you, start practicing in a pool until you comfortable with your surroundings. Soon you could be posing as a mermaid/merman!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/underwater-1537466_1920.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-628" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/underwater-1537466_1920-1024x576.jpg" alt="underwater model" width="1024" height="576" /></a></p>
<ol start="4">
<li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Underwater Criminal Investigator</span></li>
</ol>
<p>A UCI diver is primarily trained in recovery, be it a bullet, gun, knife, body, or vehicle. Once they have located their target, there are steps to follow, ensuring that correct evidence handling and chain of custody procedures are adhered to – even though you are underwater! Conditions are almost always deep, cold, and in near to zero visibility making a career in underwater criminal investigating a challenging yet fascinating one.</p>
<p>Learn more by reading <strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="http://www2.padi.com/blog/2013/04/23/publicsafetydiver_interview/" target="_blank">PADI’s interview with Public Safety Diver, Mike Berry</a></span></strong>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/crime-scene.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-632" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/crime-scene-1024x550.jpg" alt="crime-scene" width="1024" height="550" /></a></p>
<ol start="5">
<li><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Underwater film crew</span></li>
</ol>
<p>Lots of movies involve submerged scenes. No matter where it is shot (unless it is 100% CGI) there will be divers involved; safety divers, underwater videographers, stunt divers, and models (see above). Regardless which aspect you are involved in, it would be an incredible way to partake in such a production. If you have an interest in the medias, and a love of the underwater world, you may well have found your niche. If this is something that interests you, PADI does an <strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.padi.com/padi-courses/underwater-videographer" target="_blank">Underwater Videographer</a></span></strong> course.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/diver-85913_1920.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-633" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/diver-85913_1920-1024x574.jpg" alt="underwater videographer" width="1024" height="574" /></a></p>
<p>There is a dream job out there for everyone, we just hope yours involves diving too! If you haven&#8217;t quite found the ideal career yet, keep honing your diving skills by working your way up through the courses, and expanding your knowledge base by enrolling on some <strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.padi.com/padi-courses/padi-course-catalog" target="_blank">PADI specialty courses</a></span></strong>!</p>
<p>We would love to hear about your dream job! Tell us all about it in the comments.</p>
<p>If you have a diving profession in mind but are not too sure what the best path is to take you there, get in touch so we can point you in the right direction. If you are dreaming of becoming a dive instructor, click <strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/tertiary-courses/diploma" target="_blank">here</a></span></strong> to learn more about our Diploma in Scuba Instruction. <strong>Visit us at Dive HQ Christchurch at 103 Durham Street South, call us on (03) 379 5804, or email us at sales@diveskiworld.co.nz</strong></p>
</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>September Services are in to WIN!</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=588</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=588#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Aug 2016 23:23:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Centres Christchurch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Trips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SCUBA Dive Gear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving Careers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Underwater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#scuba]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BCD]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dive cylinder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Gear]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[regulator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safe Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[service]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Servicing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tank]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[testing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=588</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="614" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/servicing-1024x614.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Regulator Service" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">Are you a Safe Scuba Diver? We hope so! One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to ensure your Scuba gear is in good working condition.  That means getting your BCD, Regulator, and Tanks serviced and tested regularly. If you periodically get your gear serviced, then you are already a winner in our books, but we [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="614" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/servicing-1024x614.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Regulator Service" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Are you a Safe Scuba Diver?</strong></span><br />
We hope so! One of the easiest ways to stay safe is to ensure your Scuba gear is in good working condition.  That means getting your BCD, Regulator, and Tanks serviced and tested regularly. If you periodically get your gear serviced, then you are already a winner in our books, but we would like to reward and encourage you even more&#8230;</p>
<p>Get your gear serviced or tanks tested this September and be in to WIN!</p>
<p>Get your equipment serviced and/or your tanks tested during the months of August and September and be in with a chance to win $150 valid in store*.</p>
<p>For every tank tested (hydro or visual), get your name in the draw once.</p>
<p>For every BCD fully serviced, get your name in the draw once.</p>
<p>For every Reg fully serviced, get your name in the draw <strong>twice</strong>!</p>
<p>One lucky winner will be drawn on Saturday 8<sup>th</sup> October to win a $150 voucher valid in the Dive HQ Christchurch shop.</p>
<p>*Voucher valid for purchases in the Dive HQ shop – excludes trips and courses. Voucher valid for six months.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/USA-Tour_2011_7277.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-596 size-large" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/USA-Tour_2011_7277-683x1024.jpg" alt="Regulator service" width="683" height="1024" /></a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Why get your gear serviced?</strong></span></p>
<p>Your Dive Gear is your underwater life support system, so please don&#8217;t let it fail you or your buddy when you need it the most! Over time, o-rings and seals can perish, hoses need pressure checking and potentially replacing. A good clean out of the insides of your gear is never a bad thing either!</p>
<p>Gear that is regularly serviced ensures you with a smooth, safe dive! It also means any potential problems can be picked up early to prevent an incident.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/servicing-3.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-593 size-large" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/servicing-3-1024x614.jpg" alt="Dirty regs" width="1024" height="614" /></a></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>When to get your gear serviced?</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>Regulators</strong> &#8211; Annually, or every 6 &#8211; 12 months if you dive more than 100 dives a year, or as per the manufacturers recommendation.<br />
<strong>BCDs</strong> &#8211; Annually &#8211; as with regs, it is best to get your BCD serviced every year, or more often if you are a very regular diver!<br />
<strong>Tanks</strong> &#8211; Visual Test Every Year and HYDRO every second year. (Note: A Visual is also performed when you have a HYDRO test done)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>What next?</strong></span></p>
<p>If you would like to learn more about servicing, and what goes on inside your regs, you can become a <span style="color: #3366ff;"><strong><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="https://www.padi.com/padi-courses/equipment-specialist/" target="_blank">PADI Equipment Specialist</a>. </strong></span></p>
<p>Ask us for more information about the Equipment Specialist course! Call us on 0800 DIVEHQ (348347), or visit us at 103 Durham St South.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Ear, ear! Clearing techniques</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=578</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=578#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Aug 2016 22:50:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Safety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Trips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Free Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learn to Dive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learn to Free Dive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#scuba]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[air space]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[barotrauma]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ears]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Equalize]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=578</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="500" height="300" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ear-blog.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Diving Equalization" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">One of the most common issues for Divers is equalizing your ears. There can be many reasons for this such as congestion due to a cold, swimmer’s ear, narrow Eustachian tubes, or other pre-existing issues and damage from barotrauma. I have always had sensitive ears, and after suffering a barotrauma I worried that this would [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="500" height="300" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ear-blog.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Diving Equalization" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p>One of the most common issues for Divers is equalizing your ears.</p>
<p>There can be many reasons for this such as congestion due to a cold, swimmer’s ear, narrow Eustachian tubes, or other pre-existing issues and damage from barotrauma.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/earArt2.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-581 size-full" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/earArt2.jpg" alt="Inner Ear diagram" width="500" height="287" /></a></p>
<p>I have always had sensitive ears, and after suffering a barotrauma I worried that this would stop me diving, but after doing some research and trials at the deep end of the pool, I found an equalizing method that works for me.  I’ve compiled a list of tricks and tips, the first 4 are pre-dive and the rest apply to the dive itself.</p>
<p>Hopefully there’s one or a combination of tips that work for you, and remember don’t push it &#8211; there’s always next time.</p>
<p><strong>Here are a few other tips, these are things to thing about <span style="text-decoration: underline;">before going diving</span></strong>:</p>
<ul>
<li>Avoid milk and other dairy products that may increase your mucus production.</li>
<li>Avoid tobacco and alcohol: like dairy they can increase your mucus levels.</li>
<li>Start clearing your ears early – even hours before you dive.</li>
<li>Chew gum before diving, this keeps you swallowing which is opening your Eustachian tubes.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong> </strong><strong>Once you’re <span style="text-decoration: underline;">in the water</span> think about these pointers:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Equalise at the Surface &#8211; this can help you get down the first metre and can also inflate your Eustachian – remember, be gentle!</li>
<li>Descend feet first – it can be much harder to clear with you head down.</li>
<li>Look up as you descend. This stretches the tubes, I often stretch my neck from left to right as well to help extend the stretch.</li>
<li>Use a descent line – this will help you control the speed of your descent.</li>
<li><strong>MOST IMPORTANTLY</strong> <strong>– STOP IF IT HURTS! </strong>Your Eustachian tubes have been blocked by the pressure differential. Ascend a metre or two and try equalising again gently.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/diver-equalizing-ears.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-579 size-full" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/diver-equalizing-ears.jpg" alt="diver equalizing ears" width="1200" height="808" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> <strong>Clearing Methods</strong></span></p>
<p>The most common method is the <strong>Valsalva Manoeuvre &#8211; </strong>this is the most common method, you pinch you nose then blow gently. Be aware of how hard you are blowing as too much pressure could rupture an ear drum. Never blow for more than 5 seconds before taking a break. The problem with this method as it doesn’t open the Eustachian tubes, instead air is forced up into them but this won’t work if the tubes are already locked due to a pressure differential.</p>
<p>Another common one is the <strong>Toynbee Manoeuvre</strong> – you start with pinching your nose, and while holding it – swallow. The motion of swallowing opens the tubes while the movement of your tongue forces compressed air against them.</p>
<p>The <strong>Lowrey Manoeuver</strong> combines the Valsalva and Toynbee and this is one that works well for me. While holding your nose – blow gently and swallow at the same time.</p>
<p>The <strong>Frenzel Manoeuvre</strong> requires you pinching your nose and closing the back of your throat (as you would do when straining to lift something). Then try making the sound of the letter ‘K’, closing you throat is opening the Eustachian tubes and making the ‘K’ sound forces air against the opening.</p>
<p>The <strong>Edmonds Technique</strong> involves tensing the soft palate &#8211; this is the soft tissue at the back of the roof of your mouth &#8211; and your throat muscles, while pushing the jaw forward and down, do a Valsalva manoeuver.</p>
<p>This next one requires a bit more practice – <strong>Voluntary Tube Opening. </strong>Again start by tensing the muscles of the soft palate and throat while pushing your jaw forward and down as if you starting to yawn and this will pull the Eustachian tubes open. With a lot of practice some dives can learn to control these muscles and hold the tubes open for continuous equalization.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Do you struggle with equalizing? What methods work best for you? Share in the comments below!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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		<title>Hikurangi Marine Reserve working wonders</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=557</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=557#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Aug 2016 00:12:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Sites]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dive Trips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learn to Dive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Conservation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[crayfish]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Diving with Seals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kaikoura Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[marine reserve]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New Zealand Diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[underwater photography]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=557</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/barneys-rock-1024x576.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="barney&#039;s rock" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">In August of 2014 the Hikurangi marine reserve opened off the coast of Kaikoura along with a few other protected areas. These included a Fur Seal and Whale sanctuary and also some areas that are off limits to commercial fishing. The areas were designed to protect marine species and the environment that they live in. [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/barneys-rock-1024x576.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="barney&#039;s rock" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p>In August of 2014 the Hikurangi marine reserve opened off the coast of Kaikoura along with a few other protected areas. These included a Fur Seal and Whale sanctuary and also some areas that are off limits to commercial fishing. The areas were designed to protect marine species and the environment that they live in. This marine reserve drew a lot of attention among the diving and fishing community. It’s on the South side of Kaikoura on a popular stretch of the shoreline which was ideal for Christchurch people to stop to Free Dive or Scuba Dive. When we had dived there pre marine reserve it was beautiful but there weren’t a lot of fish, and size crayfish were getting harder to find.</p>
<p>I had dived here many times before it became a marine reserve, and every dive I did there I really enjoyed, but what I was about to see would change how I looked at the coast of Kaikoura forever.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Hikurangi-Marine-Reserve.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-559" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Hikurangi-Marine-Reserve.jpg" alt="Hikurangi Marine Reserve" width="565" height="435" /></a></p>
<p>A group of us had decided to head up to Kaikoura for a couple fun dives one Sunday a few months back. I was in charge of deciding where we would dive which is always a tough job. We were driving up the coast and I still had no idea where we were going to stop. When we saw the water it was so flat I knew where we were going to dive. We pulled over at the lay-by by Barneys Rock and I proceed to tell them we were going to surface swim out to the big white rock and dive around it. So we all geared up and started to head out with our dive buddy. We dropped down on the shore side of the rock and had planned to head around keeping it on our left. As soon as we got to the bottom we noticed the visibility was more than 10m and we knew it was going to be an awesome dive. We started kicking and there was a school of Moki right in front of us. We sat and watched them for ages, they were so curious. There were a few blue cod and butterfish hanging around as well. One butter we saw was massive you could see the long silver line down its side and the bright blue on its fins. I decided to look in a crack in the rock and there would have been about 10 crayfish peering back at me. They were not worried one bit that I was there. We continued swimming around the rock reaching depths of about 20m. All of sudden out of nowhere was a black shape with big eyes. It was a seal who had come to check us out. He played with us for a while and then swam off.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/seal.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-360" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/seal.jpg" alt="seal" width="723" height="407" /></a></p>
<p>We had now got round to the back of the rock and came across a split in the rock face. I signaled to my buddy to come and have a look. What I saw in front of me is something I never dreamt of seeing. There was around 70-80 cray fish in one hole. They were lined up in rows like they were an army ready to fight. The smaller cray fish were in the front and the big breeding stock were far back in the hole. These were some of the biggest crayfish I have seen. I didn’t want to leave this hole. It was unreal and what if I could never find it again. We had to start heading back, we had been out for a long time and the other divers would be finishing their dive soon. As we swam back round to the front and headed back to the shore under the water there was Paua all over the rocks. There was so many there that they were almost on top of each other. Before we made it back to shore a school of Kahawai quickly swam past us not stopping to see what we were doing. We decided it was time to end the dive and head up. When we got to the surface my buddy and I were so excited about what we had just seen and couldn’t wait to hear how cool everyone else’s dives were.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Patrick-Underater-Cray.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-377" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Patrick-Underater-Cray.jpg" alt="Patrick Underater Cray" width="960" height="540" /></a></p>
<p>Every time I think about this dive I want to go back and do it all over again. The difference in the amount of aquatic life in just the first two years of this marine reserve being open is unbelievable. I cannot wait to see what it will be like in another two years!</p>
<p>Read more about how marine surveys are performed in this <span style="text-decoration: underline; color: #3366ff;"><strong><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/82151704/counting-what-lies-beneath-the-waves-at-kaikouras-hikurangi-marine-reserve" target="_blank">article</a></strong></span>.</p>
<p>An article from when the marine reserve was first put in place can be found <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/environment/9833966/Kaikoura-marine-protections-unveiled" target="_blank">here</a></span></span></strong>.</p>
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		<title>Influential Women in Diving</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=508</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=508#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 19 Jul 2016 23:23:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Diver]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Women's Dive Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#scuba]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brave]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[women]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[women's dive day]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=508</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="709" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/sedna-dive-team-1024x709.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="sedna dive team" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">Ten Women – One Sea Goddess – 3000 Kilometres – 100 Days – One Vision – One World Record. With Women’s Dive Day just gone, I wanted to find women making an impact in the world of scuba. I found the Sedna Dive Team and their Epic Expedition. “Women Wanted: For hazardous journey, small wages, bitter [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="709" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/sedna-dive-team-1024x709.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="sedna dive team" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p><strong>Ten Women – One Sea Goddess – 3000 Kilometres – 100 Days – One Vision – One World Record.</strong></p>
<p>With Women’s Dive Day just gone, I wanted to find women making an impact in the world of scuba. I found the <span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff;" href="http://www.sednaepic.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Sedna Dive Team</strong></a></span> and their Epic Expedition.</p>
<p><em>“<strong>Women Wanted</strong>: For hazardous journey, small wages, bitter cold, long days of complete sunlight, constant danger, safe return hopeful, honour and recognition in case of success.”</em></p>
<p>They are a bunch of truly gutsy women! Lead by expedition founder Susan R Eaton, in the northern summer of 2016 they plan on snorkeling the Northwest Passage to bring attention to the disappearing Arctic Sea Ice and the impact this is having on the aboriginal people’s way of life. This will be a 3000km, 100 day trip from Pond Inlet on Baffin Island, through the treacherous Northern Passage, to Nunavut in Canada’s Northern Territories.<img class=" wp-image-509 size-large aligncenter" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/nw-passage-lg-1-1024x603.jpg" alt="northwest passage" width="1024" height="603" /></p>
<p>Dividing into two made for TV teams – Team Beluga and Team Narwhal, each member will take to the waters prepared to face challenges such as stinging jellyfish, tusked walrus, polar bears, and pods of orcas, not to mention icebergs, gale force winds, and maybe the toughest of all: -2° waters. The women will be taking turns in the water, using special <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/category/SCUBA-Gear-Drysuits" target="_blank">drysuits</a></span></strong></span> with heating undersuits and mitts. Rather than swimming, each snorkeler will use a scooter or diver propulsion vehicle which can travel between 3 – 5km/h and the plan is to continue the relay non-stop as long as they have sunlight.</p>
<p>Hopefully these challenges will translate into a 10 part television series showing the lead up period and all the preparations required and then into the relay itself.</p>
<p>The team is made up of geologists, biologists, oceanographers, award winning videographers, environmental lawyers and much more &#8211; all with a passion to make a difference. They see the expedition as a ‘Call to Action’, a chance to provide aboriginal and scientific knowledge to public and governments on impending issue of global warming and its impact of the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem.</p>
<p>Their expedition boat will double as a portable aquarium, while the women are snorkeling they hope to collect small animals, seaweeds, invertebrates and other sea life to display to the local people at each stop before returning their finding back to the sea.</p>
<p>Following the relay, Team Sedna plan on translating its findings into education and awareness programs for the Inuit and Inuvialuit people situated along the northern passage. Team Sedna will aim to serve as role models and hope to inspire Inuit girls and young women they meet along the way to think ‘big’ and follow their dreams.</p>
<p>To get a glimpse at how incredible these women really are, watch this video!</p>
<p><iframe width="1170" height="658" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BNN3lacross?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
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		<title>Why I love diving (so very, very much)</title>
		<link>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=475</link>
		<comments>https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=475#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 14 Jul 2016 02:55:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Dive HQ Christchurch]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Dive Centres Christchurch]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Scuba Diving]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Underwater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#Dive Course]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[#learn to dive]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[#love your job]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[underwater]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[underwater world]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/?p=475</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/ChanIsl_Mar07_1250-1024x683.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Love Diving!" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right">“Been there, done that” and you know what? It doesn’t matter. I could have dived the same site a hundred times, and yet I still feel that same bubbling excitement as I gear up for the dive. The drive or boat ride hums with anticipation as everyone discusses what we might see this time. I [&#8230;]</p>]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="col-5 no-margin-bottom"><img width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/ChanIsl_Mar07_1250-1024x683.jpg" class="attachment-large wp-post-image" alt="Love Diving!" style="margin-top: -80px; margin-bottom: 0px;" /></figure><p class="col-6 right"><p>“Been there, do<img class="alignleft wp-image-476 " src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/image8-225x300.jpg" alt="Kaikoura boat dive" width="304" height="406" />ne that” and you know what? It doesn’t matter. I could have dived the same site a hundred times, and yet I still feel that same bubbling excitement as I gear up for the dive. The drive or boat ride hums with anticipation as everyone discusses what we might see this time. I will grab a tank and set up my equipment – a comfortable and familiar procedure. The sound of waves on the shore, the salty sea wind on my face; the feeling of <em>going home</em>. People are spitting in masks, swilling them out. It isn’t elegant, and we don’t care! Others attach strobes to cameras, and buddy teams help each other gear up. Buddy checks complete? Let’s go.</p>
<p>It begins. Wading out through the waves, letting the cool water wash over you, or back-rolling into the blue. Looking down at that whole other world that lies beneath us – just waiting to be explored!</p>
<p>70% of the planet we live on is covered with water, making it hardly surprising that some of the most spectacular spots on earth lie under the ocean’s surface. Non-divers only get the chance to experience 30% of what is on offer – imagine what you are missing out on!</p>
<p>Regulator in – my lifeline that will supply my air during the dive – I start my descent. Deflating my BCD, I’m in free fall, I can twist and turn in any way <a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/10372782_743890759023792_1575247656807633860_n.jpg"><img class="alignright  wp-image-477" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/10372782_743890759023792_1575247656807633860_n.jpg" alt="Freedom of Diving" width="328" height="493" /></a>I please. I am weightless, I defy gravity, I am flying! Lying face down, arms and legs splayed slowing my descent. I am sky-diving in slow-mo, watching as the sea bed rises to meet me. I will twist over to lie looking up at the surface, as it slips slowly away from me, or maybe let my whole world flip upside down as I plunge – Superman style – onwards; one of my favourite moments of a dive is the descent. It is that sudden sense of weightlessness, when the laws of physics exerted on us on land no longer apply. Ever wanted to experience zero gravity and what it feels like to fly unaided? Then diving will give you a pretty good idea.</p>
<p>Seconds before making contact with the bottom, I take a slow, deep breath, stabilising myself, stopping me inches short of the sea bed. I hang momentarily, then begin my dive. Learning to control your buoyancy is the key to ‘underwater flying’, and you will find that once you have it mastered, you can perform impressive underwater gymnastics with next to no effort. You think it, you do it – your body unquestioningly following your brain and imagination’s orders. Honestly, there is no other feeling quite like it! (You can perfect your buoyancy with a <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><span style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;"><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" title="Peak Performance Buoyancy" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/dive-courses/speciality-courses" target="_blank">Peak Performance Buoyancy Course</a>!</span></strong></span>)</p>
<p>Now that you are here, it is time to look around. The whole universe has gone quiet – something else that I love. All you hear is the sound of your own breathing. In, out, in, out… Slow and steady, you are in total control. Every now and then you may hear the unmistakable sound of a parrotfish chomping on nearby coral, or maybe the annoying whine of a boat engine, but you relax, knowing it will soon pass and fade.</p>
<p>How many of you like to spend ages in the shower because it is your ‘thinking place’? Somewhere you can be alone with your thoughts and finally make those decisions that have been hanging over you for a while? Being underwater is kind of like that, but a hundred times better. Your troubles, worries, and problems all fade for that time you spend out in the blue.</p>
<p>No matter where you are diving, there are always a million sights to distract you.</p>
<p>“Whoa! Look at that giant crayfish, right there” *<em>frantic hand signals</em>*</p>
<p>“Seal! Seal behind you!” (What is the signal for seal, anyway?)</p>
<p>Sharks, turtles, pretty colourful fishes… The kelp and coral itself a delight for the eyes. The light playing through the water, floating rainbows, sparkling off the sand… Everything about our underwater world is mesmerizing.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/seal.jpg"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-360 size-full" src="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/blog/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/seal.jpg" alt="seal" width="723" height="407" /></a></p>
<p>I have been diving for almost fourteen years and yet even now, nothing can match the feeling I get before and during a dive. I still catch myself in complete wonder, halfway through a dive, as I realise I am breathing underwater (a look at my dive computer confirms that yes, I have been breathing underwater for a full 45 minutes now). So I will grin and perform a series of flips, just because I can.</p>
<p>Diving is so much more than a sport; it is a passion, it is true love, it is a life-style! Once you learn to dive, enter into that whole new world, and join the community made up by scuba divers, you will never want to turn back.</p>
<p>If you would like to <a href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/dive-courses/open-water" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><span style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;">learn to dive</span></strong></span></a>, or <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://www.diveskiworld.co.nz/dive-courses" target="_blank">continue your diving education</a></span></strong></span>, get in touch so we can help you pursue your passion!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Dive HQ Christchurch 2013 Ltd</strong></p>
<p>103 Durham Street South</p>
<p>Sydenham,</p>
<p>Christchurch,</p>
<p>New Zealand</p>
<p><strong>Phone: 03 379-5804</strong></p>
<p><strong>Email: sales@diveskiworld.co.nz</strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"><a style="color: #3366ff; text-decoration: underline;" href="www.diveskiworld.co.nz" target="_blank">www.diveskiworld.co.nz</a></span></span></strong></p>
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