Local Wrecks
HMNZS Wellington
HMNZS Wellington F69 was decommissioned by the RNZN and sunk off the south coast of the City of Wellington on 13 November 2005. The F69 is a Leander class frigate that was especially prepared as a dive destination. Unfortunately the forces of nature proved too much for HMNZS Wellington F69 and a huge storm broke her into three sections shortly after she was sunk (see drawing). The major attractions of a warship, such as the forward guns and bridge remain although the superstructure has been reduced in height. She is broken in front of the bridge and in the area of the helicopter hangar.
The Wellington F69 lies in about 21 - 24m of water and is a boat dive. She is exposed to the southerly and to strong northerlies but is divable many days of the year. Visability is reasonable except in extreme conditions. Currents over her are often quite strong. The Wellington F69 lies close to the boat ramp allowing one or two dives per boat trip. Dives are no-take dives as she is owned by a Trust. Fishlife is abundant so take a camera.
HMNZS South Sea
This ex-RNZN Minesweeper caught fire and sank during WWII. She lies in the middle of Wellington Harbour and is well worth a look. She is upright with her superstructure removed. Definitely a boat dive.
Other Local Wrecks
Wellington has about 60 ship wrecks littered around her coast. Many are too dificult to get to. There is a group of four however that are accessible from the shore. These are great fun to dive, but you get far better value if you follow one of our experienced local dive guides. In two dives you can log the wrecks of the "Wellington" (not HMNZS Wellington), "Cyrus", "Progress" and the "Yung Pen".
| Mana 04 233 8238 |
| 9 Marina View |
| nzsa@scubadiving.co.nz |
