The Twofold Bay Charitable Trust, in collaboration with LegaSea Hawkes Bay, are delighted to report that Resource Consent has been granted to sink the Twofold Bay fishing trawler to create an artificial reef and dive site. This follows more than two years of robust assessment of environmental effects and wide consultation with mana whenua and other stakeholders.

The site for the proposed reef is 3 Nautical Miles from Napier Inner Harbour, in 17 metres of water and approximately 400 metres east of Pania Reef.

The consent also includes the positioning of up to 50 Reef Cones on the sandy seabed surrounding the vessel. These pyramid shaped concrete cones weigh approximately 1.2 tonnes and will provide a degree of protection to during adverse weather events and importantly provide habitat for reef associates fish species.

During the resource consent process excellent progress has been made in removing contaminants and generally readying the vessel for it’s final journey. More than 500 man hours of voluntary labour has gone into this so far. The last remaining job is to remove the engines and place concrete in the hull to offset the weight of the engines. This work will take place in the coming weeks. Meantime the Trust is working through a series of strategies for the sinking as well as appropriate ceremonies to mark the event.

At this stage the Trust does not have a precise time-frame for the sinking, but is hopeful that it will take place towards the end of June this year.

Now that the green light has been given, the Trust is seeking financial support to help meet the substantial costs associated with the project. Already many business’s and individuals have come forward with donations, grants, pro bono services and voluntary labour, for which the Trust is extremely grateful. Further cash donations are now needed to assist in meeting immediate costs associated with the sinking, manufacturing and placement of the reef cones and the all important ongoing monitoring. If you are able to assist please go to the Trust’s web site – www.twofoldbaycharitabletrust.org.nz/donate/. There are a range of options to contribute and donations qualify for tax credits. Feel free to contact any of the Trustees listed on the web site if you would like to discuss any mater relating to the project.