New Zealand Launches Operation To Recover Containers From Sunken Naval Vessel Near Samoa

HMNZS Manawanui — Image Credits: New Zealand Defence Force/Linkedin

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has launched an operation to recover three shipping containers that were lost when the Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui hit a reef and sank off the south-west coast of Upolu, Samoa, on October 5, 2024.

The operation began on Friday, with local contractor ARK Marine helping in the recovery.

The three containers, each measuring 10 feet, were lost during the sinking of the dive and hydrographic vessel and are now trapped on a reef.

The NZDF plans to float the containers and tow them to shore, which will take at least three days if weather conditions remain favourable.

Two of the three containers are empty, with the third containing around 3,000 kg of food.

None of the containers are watertight and have suffered structural damage. Tides and swells have caused them to move, complicating the removal process.

The operation has been planned in close collaboration with Samoan government authorities, who have approved the removal strategy.

New Zealand Team — Image Credits: New Zealand Defence Force/Linkedin

Commodore Andrew Brown of the NZDF said that the recovery is a complex task due to several factors, including the weight of the containers, possible biosecurity risks, and the need to reduce environmental damage.

Brown claims the NZDF has evaluated various options before settling on its current strategy.

“We are working to ensure minimal harm to the marine environment,” he stated, adding that weather and sea conditions could change the timeframe. Although the NZDF aims to finish the recovery within three days, there are concerns that poor weather might lead to delays.

Last week, the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) launched a Court of Inquiry (COI) to investigate the incident, during which all 75 crew members were safely rescued. The ship’s Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) has been recovered and is being analysed to help in the investigation.

The HMNZS Canterbury has arrived at Apia to assist with recovery and logistical support for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The vessel also delivered additional equipment to help the NZDF in its ongoing efforts.

Per the Maritime New Zealand and the NZDF task groups, no pollution or wildlife damage has been detected along Samoa’s coastline.

Local authorities are conducting daily beach surveys, and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is monitoring the coastline with uncrewed aerial vehicles. Surveillance flights by an RNZAF P-8A Poseidon provided important details on the situation.

Reference: NZDF

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