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Log This Dive

Rena (Wreck)

The Rena wreck off the coast of Tauranga is less a single dive and more a collection of scattered pieces, a poignant reminder of its dramatic grounding. We’ve found the stern section to be the most interesting, sitting relatively upright in around 22 metres. You’ll see how the ocean has already started to claim it, with gorgonian fans and colourful sponges taking hold on the metal. Schools of snapper and trevally often swirl around the superstructure, while bronze whalers sometimes cruise past in the blue. Our favourite time to dive here is on a slack tide, otherwise, the currents can make it a real workout. Visibility averages around 10 metres, so it’s not always gin-clear, but when it’s good, the sheer scale of the wreck pieces is impressive. Exploring the various debris fields gives you a real sense of the ship’s destruction. It’s a dive for those who appreciate history and how quickly marine life can adapt, rather than for exploring intact interiors.