Underwater

The November, 1971 club trip to the Poor Knights was very successful. We managed to get out to the Islands on all but two days of our stay. A group of Americans who were diving near by reaffirmed our belief that the Knights are not a place for inexperienced divers. The discovery of a giant salo made headlines up and down the country and even in Sydney.

Some members returned to the Knights after Xmas and were hosted by Lew Ritchie, one of our foundation members. Lew provided his boat for coastal dives and for several trips out to the Knights. Scenery included bronze whalers and, on one dive, several black coral trees.

In late February 1972 a trip for more experienced divers was held. A chartered catamaran, and us, spent a week visiting the Mercury, Alderman, and Mayor and White islands, as well as several reefs and rocks in the area. Diving in the region was fantastic - very large kingies, grouper, a couple of bronzies, black coral and more. A portable compressor on board helped make this trip very successful.

Local diving has been dampened by weather but all coasts have been div able at some time even though visibility in some areas has been very poor. Mana Island is gradually revealing its secrets and Hunter Bank is still enticing when the weather is good. In Wellington Harbour the first units of the artificial reef have been put down. Our sponsors ensured good press and T.V. coverage. Anyone interested in helping with further stages (and there will be plenty) please contact the Secretary.