BY Stuff.co.nz

A diver died in Wellington Harbour while inspecting the underside of a commercial charter vessel he leased.

The 54-year-old was pulled from the water near Queens Wharf around 11.15am yesterday.

Maritime police Senior Sergeant John Bryant said it was not clear what had caused the man to get into trouble but it did not appear suspicious.

"I guess there's the inherent risk with any diving operation, but we will have to wait and see what the pathologist says."

An autopsy was due to be carried out today.

The man's name has not yet been released.

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