Rena Bay's 'top wreck dive site' if it remains

Photo/Dale Hobson, Mount Maunganui Underwater Club

The Rena wreck will become the Bay of Plenty's number one wreck dive site if it remains at Astrolabe Reef, a local diver says.

Jason Welsh, counsel appearing for the Mount Maunganui Underwater Club, said there would be positive recreation effects if the wreck remained in situ.

Mr Welsh appeared on behalf of five members of the club - Russell Hawkins, Dale Hobson, Michael Torr, Ian Sherwood and Wayne Kennedy.

Photo/Dale Hobson, Mount Maunganui Underwater Club

He said the positive effects of leaving the wreck outweighed the negative, by enhancing what was already a popular dive location and contributing to regional tourism.

Risks associated with diving the wreck were "negligible".

Photo/Dale Hobson, Mount Maunganui Underwater Club

Russ Hawkins, Mount Maunganui Underwater Club captain, said if the wreck was to be removed, the club was concerned the length of time needed would continue to impact on recreational access to the site, and result in further damage to the reef.

"I consider the salvage team has done a good job of making the site safe and cleaning up ..."

Mr Kennedy wrapped up submissions by saying he believed if opened up to diving, the Rena would become the Bay's number one wreck dive experience.