PADI Dive Master Training Program
Next intake runs March 2026 to December 2026, with a StudyLink‑approved part‑time PADI Divemaster programme delivered here in Whitianga. All programmes meet the criteria for the Government’s Fees Free policy, so if you’re considering stepping into the first level of PADI’s professional ratings, we can talk you through exactly how this affects your study costs.
How the programme runs
Training takes place every second weekend, giving you a consistent rhythm of study while still fitting around work or other commitments.
Qualifications you’ll complete
Across the year you’ll work through the full suite of PADI certifications needed to become a confident, industry‑ready Divemaster:
PADI Open Water
PADI Advanced Open Water
PADI Rescue Diver
Five PADI Specialties (including Freediver)
PADI Master Scuba Diver
PADI Divemaster
If you’d like to add a Dive Vessel Operations strand, you can also complete the Master of Small Commercial Dive Boat qualification as an optional extra. This can be arranged before or during the programme.
Medical requirement
The only additional cost outside your course fees is the required recreational dive medical. You’re welcome to complete this before arriving in Whitianga—medical certificates are valid for 12 months and will cover your entire programme.
StudyLink and enrolment
You can contact StudyLink at any time to get your application underway. Nothing activates until the course begins, but having everything organised early makes the start of your training smooth and stress‑free.
Try‑dive experience
We invite prospective students to visit, look around our facility, head out on the boat, and complete two complimentary try dives. It’s a great way to meet current students and instructors and get a feel for the training environment.
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Why train with us?
Purpose‑built facilities
A modern training centre with dedicated classrooms, a student lounge, and outdoor spaces designed for practical learning.
Expert instruction
Training is delivered by highly experienced PADI Instructors, including our in‑house PADI Course Director.
Quality gear provided
No need to purchase equipment upfront. Students have free use of our high‑quality Mares gear throughout training.
A strong fleet
Our main 12‑metre vessel Mystery Machine provides fast access to hundreds of dive sites. We also operate Scuba Doo (12 m) and Under Pressure (6 m inflatable), giving you extensive boat‑based training.
Exceptional dive environment
The eastern Coromandel coastline, offshore islands, and Te Whanganui‑A‑Hei Marine Reserve offer some of the best and most varied dive conditions in New Zealand.
Extra opportunities
Students can use our dive gear on non‑course weekends (when available) to build dive numbers and explore the region.
We also offer strong student discounts—up to 30% off dive gear purchases.
Offsite practicums
Included trips may involve altitude diving at Lake Taupō or wreck diving in Northland, giving you wider industry‑relevant experience.
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Completing this programme gives you a broad, professional skill set and qualifies you to guide dives, assist instructors, and supervise diving activities as a PADI Divemaster. For enrolment information, contact our in‑house PADI Course Director, Darrell Bird, at darrell@divethecoromandel.co.nz or call/text 027‑433 9433
