Degaussing station Matiu/Somes Island

German raiders laid both contact and magnetic mines in New Zealand waters in 1940-41. Degaussing was employed te protect steel-hulled ships from mines that were triggered by the magnetic signature of the hull. The signature was neutralised by positioning the ship close to a cable through which an electric current was discharged canceling out the magnetic field, a proces that had tob e repeated at regular intervals. Degaussing ranges were operated in both Auckland and Wellington during World War II.

The Matiu/Somes Island was built during 1942 and was operational by November. It consisted of a two-storey instrument and observation block with office, engine room, and store on the shore, with 12 detectors on a 410 ft (125 m) line about 3500 ft (1065 m) offshore to measure the magnetic field. It had a staff of seven, and there were an additional four to operate a launch. The service was operated by WRENS (Women’s Royal Navy Service). The station was closed in 1945 and the cable was lifted and buildings sold the following years. All that remains at the site on the eastern shore south of the main wharf are some foundations and the generator mounting.

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Source

• Text: www.doc.govt.nz
• Photos: Dave