New Zealand navy ship sinks after running aground near Samoa
On the evening of October 5, the Royal New Zealand Navy's hydrographic dive and survey ship HMNZS Manawanui (IMO: 9273662) ran aground and later sank off the island of Upolu, Samoa. The 85-meter, 2800 DWT vessel was conducting a hydrographic survey just one mile off the southern coast when it struck a reef formation, known as a bommie, during rough weather.
Despite efforts to stabilize the ship, the hull sustained major damage, leading to flooding in multiple compartments, making the crew abandon ship. A distress call was issued, and Samoan authorities, along with the Royal New Zealand Navy, launched a rapid response.
All 75 crew members and passengers were successfully evacuated using life rafts. Local rescue vessels assisted in bringing them ashore safely, with only minor injuries reported.
By the morning of October 6, smoke was seen rising from the ship, and at 9 a.m., HMNZS Manawanui fully sank. Samoan authorities are now closely monitoring the area for potential pollution, while New Zealand has dispatched environmental spill kits and personnel to assist in the clean-up. Although no significant oil spill has been confirmed, there are growing concerns about the impact on marine wildlife, with reports of sea turtles already struggling in possible oil contamination.
New Zealand Prime Minister has vowed support for the environmental recovery efforts, emphasizing that swift action is being taken to minimize any damage caused by the incident.
