F69 (HMNZS Southland) – Wellington & South Coast

32m Max

5-18m Vis

boat

Site Overview

The F69, also known as the HMNZS Southland, is a former Royal New Zealand Navy frigate that was sunk off the Wellington south coast, creating a larger and deeper wreck dive than the nearby HMNZS Wellington. The frigate lies at depths of 22 to 32 metres, providing a more challenging wreck diving experience that rewards advanced divers with extensive penetration opportunities and impressive marine life aggregations. The wreck is penetrable throughout, with prepared access points leading to engine rooms, bridge areas, crew quarters, and other interior spaces that create a comprehensive wreck diving experience. Massive schools of blue maomao surround the wreck, while kingfish patrol the exterior at the bow and stern sections. The hull has been colonised by thick layers of sponges and marine growth that glow under torch light, creating vibrant colour scenes throughout the dive. Crayfish shelter beneath the hull and in the larger interior spaces, while moray eels occupy the darker corners of the wreck structure. The deeper depth and more intact structure make the F69 a preferred destination for experienced wreck divers seeking a more challenging and rewarding frigate exploration. The proximity to Wellington and the ability to combine dives with the HMNZS Wellington makes the F69 an essential component of any Wellington wreck diving itinerary.

Dive Briefing

"The dive begins at the wreck mast at approximately 18 metres, descending along the superstructure to the main deck at 25 metres and the keel at 32 metres. The frigate is more intact than the HMNZS Wellington, with extensive penetration opportunities through prepared access points. Explore the engine room, bridge, and crew quarters where moray eels and crayfish shelter in the darker spaces. Massive schools of blue maomao surround the wreck exterior, while kingfish patrol the bow and stern. The hull surfaces are covered in thick sponge and marine growth that creates vibrant scenes under torch light. The return follows the upper superstructure at 18 to 20 metres where the schooling fish are most concentrated. The safety stop is conducted on the upper superstructure. The hull surfaces are covered in thick sponge and marine growth that creates vibrant scenes under torch light. Qualified wreck divers can explore the engine room, bridge, and crew quarters where moray eels and crayfish shelter in the darker interior spaces of the frigate."