Statement on the marking of one year since the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui

Today marks one year since the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui off the coast of Samoa on 6 October 2024. The ship ran aground the previous evening on a reef off Upolu while conducting a survey task. In the ensuing hours, despite the elements and the darkness, all 75 ship’s company and passengers made their way to shore safely, thanks in very great part to Samoan authorities and the courage of the local Samoan community who responded to the incident as it unfolded. 

Alongside our Samoan colleagues much work has been carried out in the past 12 months to minimise the effects of the sinking and investigate the causes. Fallen shipping containers have been removed. Fuel, oil, other pollutants, equipment, weapons, ammunition and debris have been recovered and the wreck has been made as safe as possible. 

Further work is required. That work includes progressing an independent wreck assessment together with environmental studies. This information will be essential in supporting decisions about the future work required.  The priority remains, as it has been throughout, to minimise any environmental impacts of the sinking, and to support the Government of Samoa in its response.

It is pleasing to note that monitoring by the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa has shown the seawater in the area is clear and uncontaminated from elevated hydrocarbons resulting in the warning on fishing being lifted completely in February.

We also recognise the need to support the sailors, passengers, and those involved in the rescue, and what followed.   

One year on we recognise the impact that the sinking has had on the people of Samoa, particularly the communities of the South coast, and also the support the NZDF has received from the Government and people of Samoa in dealing with the aftermath. 

A comprehensive Court of Inquiry into the causes has been concluded and considerable work to implement the recommendations is underway.

Any disciplinary proceedings that may arise are yet to be determined, but we can advise that the investigation is reaching its closing stages. 

The NZDF and our supporting agencies remain committed to doing the right thing: working with the Government of Samoa in dealing with the effects of the sinking, implementing the recommendations of the Court of Inquiry and ensuring that the 75 ship’s company and passengers continue to be supported.

In reflecting on a year on from the grounding and sinking, we remain eternally grateful that no lives were lost.