Photo captures dramatic moment two Hobson Wharf extension workers take a plunge

The two workers clinging onto a crane after slipping into the water off Hobson Wharf on Auckland's waterfront. Photo / Phoebe Moore

Two workers on Auckland's waterfront took an unexpected winter dip this morning before a nearby crane came to their rescue.

A person living nearby captured the "dramatic" scene at about 10am from her apartment overlooking the work to extend Hobson Wharf for the America's Cup.

Phoebe Moore said she was just sitting on her balcony "watching the world go by" when the two men appeared to slip into the water while working near one of the concrete piles.

A crane they had been working with lowered its hoist down to them, which they were able to cling onto.

The two workers clinging onto a crane after slipping into the water off Hobson Wharf on Auckland's waterfront. Photo / Phoebe Moore

They were only in the water for a "couple of minutes" before a boat picked them up.

They were in hi-vis gear but did not appear to be wearing lifejackets.

Moore said it did not look like the men were injured, just probably a bit cold.

"It was a bit more dramatic than your usual Monday morning," Moore said.

A police spokeswoman said they had not been contacted about the incident.

In a statement, Wynyard Edge Alliance acting project manager Kurt Grant said: "There was an incident involving a gangway from a barge to the new wharf extension at Hobson Wharf, which resulted in two construction workers falling into the water.

"The workers were recovered by our safety boat within a few minutes, with no injuries. The barge has been stood down to allow WEA to complete a thorough investigation into the incident."

Grant said the safety of workers was of paramount importance and an investigation was underway.

Maritime NZ and WorkSafe NZ have been approached for comment.