Media Release October 2007

Fullers Sponsors Historic Bay Of Islands Frigate Scuttling

The Bay of Islands will bear witness to a remarkable historic event at 2.30pm on Saturday 3 November, when the frigate HMNZS Canterbury will be scuttled at Deep Water Cove. The scuttling is a boon for tourism in the area, creating the region’s first artificial reef and a new popular attraction for divers. It is also expected to boost inshore fish stocks.

The frigate, which was commissioned in May 1970 in the presence of Princess Ann, was taken out of commission in 2005 as the last of several Leander-class frigates to serve in the New Zealand Navy.

Regional General Manager Mike Horne said the scuttling was a landmark event for Bay of Islands tourism, and was expected to increase visitor numbers to the area by 15 to 20 percent, particularly in the adventure sector of the market. He said his team was looking forward to taking the public to view the frigate going down, and expected a busy summer to follow the scuttling. “What a great way to kick off the season! The Canterbury Charitable Trust has done a tremendous service to the area, and Fullers Bay of Islands is delighted to be the main sponsor of the event. It will be a truly special day in our company’s history, and for the whole region.”

Award winning tour and cruise operator Fullers Bay of Islands has official viewing rights as the main sponsor of the 3 November event, and is providing vessels to transport public and special guests to watch it’s scuttling. Tune into More FM on the day or go online at www.canterburywreck.co.nz for the most updated information. Announcements will be made if there are any changes to the schedule.

As New Zealand’s premier sightseeing excursion operator, Fullers Bay of Islands escorts visitors around the finest and most scenic maritime park in the country, with 144 islands and an abundance of marine life, including dolphins, whales and marlin. The plentiful bird life includes penguins, gannets and native songbirds.

In operation since 1886, the company has won a slew of tourism awards for its services. It offers six cruise options, from a 90-minute adventure on the 40-knot Excitor speedboat to a day-long cruise on a luxury catamaran.

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