Top 5 Entry-Level Dive Computers to Buy in New Zealand in 2025
Top 5 Entry-Level Dive Computers to Buy in New Zealand in 2025
Buying your first dive computer can be tricky, but it's an important piece of equipment that you need to be happy with. There are so many models, features, and prices to consider. Whether you’re a new diver or upgrading your old gear, having a reliable dive computer is essential for safe and enjoyable underwater adventures. Here’s a guide to the top 5 entry-level dive computers available in New Zealand in 2025.
1. Shearwater Peregrine – Best for Easy Reading (our top pick)
The Shearwater Peregrine dive computer is a sleek, beginner-friendly dive computer with a bright, high-contrast screen. It’s perfect for divers who want a simple, reliable computer they can trust on every dive. With multiple dive modes, including air and nitrox, it’s a versatile choice for anyone starting out.
You can upgrade to the Shearwater Peregrine TX to add Air Integration features. Simply pair a Shearwater Transmitter and get your air reading directly on the computer.
This comes out of the box as a wrist watch but 2 console versions have been developed for the New Zealand market knowing that a lot of Kiwis don't like to have their computer on their wrist while they are hunting for crayfish. The two versions are:
We use the Shearwater Peregrine in our rental fleet for our charter boat and they are fantastic. They are reliable and easy to use for people who are diving using our gear.
Why buy in NZ: Easy to use and the largest and clearest display out of the 5 computers listed here by far.
2. Suunto Zoop Novo – Affordable & Dependable
The Suunto Zoop Novo is a classic entry-level dive computer in NZ, known for its reliability and easy-to-use interface. Many divers (including myself) started their diving journey using the Suunto Zoop (or it's predecessors). It supports air and nitrox diving, deep stop calculations, and has a durable design suitable for both indoor training dives and New Zealand’s colder waters.
Upgrade to the Suunto Vyper if you are looking for Air Integration ability.
Why buy in NZ: Great value for money.
3. Mares Puck Pro 4 – Compact & User-Friendly
The Mares Puck Pro 4 is simple, compact, and perfect for beginner divers. Its large display, whilst grey scale as opposed to colour, is easy to read underwater, and it features essential functions like air and nitrox modes. It’s a popular choice for those looking to buy a reliable dive computer in NZ without overcomplicating things.
The Mares Puck Pro 4 can be housed in a console or as a wrist watch.
Why buy in NZ: Basic computer at a good price.
4. Aqualung i330 – Versatile for Beginners
The Aqualung i330 is a versatile entry-level dive computer, ideal for divers who want a bit more functionality without paying for advanced models. It includes a digital compass, air and nitrox modes, and optional freediving mode. The clear colour display and intuitive navigation make it perfect for first-time buyers in NZ.
Again you can have this as a wrist mounted dive computer or in a console with an SPG.
Why buy in NZ: Slightly more expensive than the other entry level computers but is compact with a relatively easy to read screen for its size.
5. Cressi Donatello – Lightweight & Simple
The Cressi Donatello is lightweight, reliable, and straightforward – perfect for beginners. It offers air and nitrox modes, long battery life, and a simple display that’s easy to read underwater. For anyone looking to buy a first dive computer in New Zealand, it’s a solid choice.
Why buy in NZ: Comes in a console (attached to your first stage) or as a wrist computer.
How to Choose the Best Entry-Level Dive Computer in NZ
When choosing your first dive computer, consider:
-
Display readability - Bright and clear screens make dives safer.
-
Dive modes - Air, nitrox, and optional freediving modes are useful for versatility.
-
Durability - NZ divers are tough, we like to hunt and explore, so a robust computer is key.
-
Local support - Buying from a NZ supplier ensures you can get help and servicing if needed.
All five of these models are excellent entry-level dive computers in 2025. The right one depends on your budget, diving style, and how much you want in extra features.
If you've got any questions or want to talk through what would work best for you then feel free to get in touch with us. We love to talk about dive gear! And we have hands-on experience with most of these computers.
Give us a call 09 438 1075 or flick us an email at sales@divegearonline.co.nz