NZDF Launches Complex Container Recovery at Site of Sunken HMNZS Manawanui

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is working with local contractor ARK Marine to recover three shipping containers lost from the HMNZS Manawanui after the dive and hydrographic vessel struck a reef and sank near Upolu, Samoa, on October 5.

The operation, involving floating and towing the containers to shore, is expected to take at least three days, weather permitting.

The containers, measuring 10 feet each, are not watertight and have sustained structural damage. Two of them are empty, while the third holds 3,000 kilograms of food. The containers have been shifting due to tides and swell, adding complexity to the recovery process.

“We have carefully considered a number of options for removing the containers. Especially, we are working hard to minimize the impact on the marine environment,” said Commodore Andrew Brown, NZDF Senior National Representative. “Other considerations include the prevailing weather, weight of the containers, and potential biosecurity risks.”

The Samoan Government has been involved throughout, approving the removal plan. As of now, the NZDF expects the operation to continue smoothly, though Commodore Brown cautioned that weather and sea conditions could affect the timetable. “We are hopeful that the conditions will be such that all containers will be removed from the reef over the coming days,” he added.

The NZDF last week launched a Court of Inquiry (COI) to investigate the incident, which saw the successful rescue of all 75 crew members. The ship’s Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) has been recovered and sent for analysis, providing critical information for the ongoing investigation.

Further support for the recovery operation has arrived in the form of the HMNZS Canterbury, which docked in Apia to assist the Samoan Government in hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. The vessel is also transporting additional equipment to aid the NZDF’s ongoing response.

So far, no pollution or deceased wildlife have been reported along Samoa’s shorelines, as confirmed by Maritime New Zealand and NZDF task groups. Daily beach surveys continue in cooperation with local authorities. The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) has also deployed uncrewed aerial vehicles to assist with shoreline assessments, while an RNZAF P-8A Poseidon has conducted multiple surveillance flights over the site to assess damage and aid the investigation.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up