Salvors Arrive to Pump Fuel Off of Lost New Zealand Survey Ship
Efforts Underway to Remove Fuel from Grounded Ship
In a significant development, a deck barge equipped with oil removal technology has arrived in Apia, Samoa. This barge is set to pump fuel from the HMNZS Manawanui, a New Zealand survey and salvage ship that ran aground and sank off the coast of Samoa on October 5. The operation to remove the remaining fuel has faced numerous delays, taking ten weeks due to various contracting, permitting, and logistical challenges. Now, with the arrival of the barge, the New Zealand Navy is preparing to begin the crucial work of fuel extraction, pending final approvals.
Preparation for Fuel Removal Operations
The salvors’ tug and barge have successfully reached Apia, and the team is currently navigating the necessary approvals from the Samoan government. These permissions are vital for the safe removal of fuel and other pollutants from the Manawanui. While waiting for these administrative sign-offs, the contractor’s crew is busy setting up the fuel extraction equipment. They are also clearing the decks to prepare for dive operations. This preparation is essential to ensure that the operation runs smoothly and efficiently.
Additionally, the team must confirm the locations for the barge’s mooring system. This system will keep the barge stable next to the reef during the fuel pumping process. Commodore Andrew Brown, the NZDF’s cleanup operation commander, emphasized the complexity and technical nature of this response. He stated, “The NZDF has specialist engineering and dive personnel providing oversight and professional advice to the salvors. It’s extremely important we do a careful and thorough job.” Weather and sea conditions will significantly influence the timeline of the operation, determining how much work can be accomplished at any given time.
Community Involvement and Environmental Concerns
As preparations for the removal operation continue, local officials and elders have conducted a “clearing the way” blessing for the barge and dive team, honoring Samoan customs. The local community is closely monitoring the situation. Fishermen from nearby villages have reported smelling diesel in the water, raising concerns about potential environmental impacts. Some residents have even discussed the possibility of organizing a lawsuit to seek compensation for any damages caused by the incident.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has reassured the community that any fuel releases have been minimal. They assert that the majority of the ship’s fuel remains contained within its tanks. Commodore Brown stressed the importance of this operation, stating, “The safe removal of fuel and other pollutants from HMNZS Manawanui is absolutely critical. New Zealand is determined to do the right thing as we know how important the coastal and marine environments are to the people of Samoa, especially those on the southwest of Upolu.”
A preliminary investigation into the grounding of the Manawanui revealed that the bridge team left the autopilot on while attempting to make manual course corrections. This error allowed the ship to run aground. As a result, three members of the bridge team may face disciplinary proceedings.
