wreck

Log This Dive

Motu Nuhi-Nuhi (l’aquarium)

The PS Ballina, a shallow wreck just off the Hastings River entrance, isn’t about dramatic depths or massive pelagics. It’s a beautifully aged, broken-up paddle steamer, sitting at a max of 11m, which makes for a long, relaxed bottom time. We love the way the light filters through the rust-coloured structure, highlighting the resident bullseyes and the occasional lionfish tucked into a shadowy nook. Visibility here averages about 5m, sometimes a bit better on a calm day, so it’s an intimate dive where you’re really focused on the details. Our favourite part is poking around the twisted metal plates and seeing how the marine life has completely reclaimed it. You’ll spot a ton of nudibranchs, often some impressive banjo sharks settled in the sand nearby, and if you’re lucky, a curious hawksbill turtle might cruise past. This site is fantastic for photographers or divers who appreciate history and the slow exploration of a rich, artificial reef. It’s a gentle dive, perfect for those who enjoy taking their time to really absorb a wreck.