Based in Mount Maunganui within the Bay of Plenty region, Bay Underwater Services NZ Ltd operates as a prominent commercial diving and marine contracting entity. Established in 1984, the company has grown into New Zealand’s largest privately owned diving contractor, serving the critical needs of the maritime, shipping, and civil infrastructure sectors. Its strategic location near the Port of Tauranga—the country's busiest export hub—allows for rapid mobilization to support international shipping traffic, port authorities, and local vessel operators throughout New Zealand and the wider Pacific region.
The company’s core operations are deeply integrated into the logistics of vessel maintenance and compliance. A significant portion of its workload addresses the strict biosecurity regulations enforced in New Zealand waters. The firm provides essential hull inspections and cleaning services to ensure vessels meet Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) standards, preventing the introduction of invasive marine pests. Beyond cleaning, the company performs technical underwater maintenance, including propeller polishing to enhance fuel efficiency, in-water replacement of propellers, and anode installation for corrosion protection.
Technical proficiency is a defining characteristic of its workforce, which includes over 50 divers who often hold dual trade qualifications as fitters, welders, or engineers. This expertise enables the company to execute complex underwater engineering tasks such as underwater welding and cutting to class standards. The organization maintains approvals from major classification societies—including Lloyd’s Register, DNV, ABS, and Bureau Veritas—authorizing it to conduct recognized in-water surveys (IWS) and non-destructive testing (NDT) for vessel certification without the need for dry-docking.
Beyond ship husbandry, Bay Underwater Services NZ plays a vital role in marine construction and civil engineering. The company supports port infrastructure through wharf repairs, pile refurbishment, and the installation of marine structures. Its capabilities extend to dredging operations, pipeline and cable laying, and the inspection of hydro dams and water assets. Additionally, the firm offers 24/7 emergency response capabilities, providing marine salvage and recovery services for vessels and aircraft, as well as oil spill remediation. Through these diverse operations, the company functions as a comprehensive support system for New Zealand’s maritime economy and infrastructure resilience.
