A file image of HMNZS Manawanui seen here while it was in the Hauraki Gulf. The vessel capsized in Samoa on 6 October 2024. (Royal New Zealand Navy)
A Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) hydrographic and diving support vessel has capsized after running aground while it was carrying out survey operations in Samoa.
The vessel, HMNZS Manawanui , was carrying out the survey about 1 n mile from the shore on 5 October before it became grounded off the southern coast of Samoa's Upolu island, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) disclosed on 6 October.
All 75 crew and passengers began evacuating into lifeboats at 1952 h local time on 5 October.
“Those onboard the lifeboats and sea boats from HMNZS Manawanui were transferred to vessels that responded to the rescue call and were transported ashore,” read the NZDF statement.
“At this stage the exact cause of the grounding is unknown, and this will need further investigation,” it said, adding the ship began listing heavily at 0640 h local time on 6 October while smoke could be seen emanating from it.
“At [0900 h local time] it was known to have capsized and was below the surface. The NZDF is working with authorities to understand the implications and minimise the environmental impacts,” according to the NZDF statement.
“Support is being provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Samoan authorities to the crew and passengers from Manawanui , and they are being accommodated in Samoa. The NZDF will be sending aircraft to Samoa to bring them back to New Zealand,” it added.
Manawanui
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