Blenheim Dive Centre (or BDC) is one of the oldest dive centres in New Zealand. It is also South Island's only PADI freediving facility. Our location in Blenheim makes us central for all activities happening in the 'Top of the South'.

BDC had been open a mere six weeks when Kevin and Jennifer Bailey took over in December 1986. This opportunity came at the right time for them, as Kevin had recently completed 23 years with RNZAF and Jennifer was looking for an interest to challenge her now that their four children where at school. With Kevin’s passion for SCUBA diving, this (ad)venture seemed the logical choice.

Having this family-run business allowed the Baileys to become even more active in the community. They forged close working relationships with Queen Charlotte College and the Underwater Hockey sporting code that have lasted to this day.

Over the years, all four children have been involved in the family business, and added to it in their own way. In 2008, Bryan stepped up and took over from his father, Kevin. Today Bryan and Jennifer continue to run the business together.

The PADI Master Instructor and Freediving Instructor at Blenheim Dive Centre is Bryan Bailey! He can train you in all levels of diving from being an Open Water Diver to becoming an Assistant Instructor!

Bryan has been diving in the Marlborough Sounds since he was 12 years old and delights in sharing his experience and knowledge with all he meets.

He earned his Diploma in Sporting Performance from the Otago Institute of Sport. Over the years, he has gone through the various levels of PADI dive training to become a Master Instructor. Many students have benefitted from the personal training programs that he has personally developed for them to enhance their in water capabilities.

As a Skills Active Assessor, Bryan has developed a close working bond with the local Aquaculture industry and provides in-depth training to their work force.

In addition, Bryan’s love of travel has motivated him to continue to offer the annual overseas dive experience that his father, Kevin began many years before. These trips offer that ideal winter getaway for ardent divers and their partners.