Salvage Teams Set Sail
Next week, a specialised salvage team based in New Zealand will begin their journey to Samoa. The operation will involve an ocean-going tug towing a barge laden with vessels, tonnes of salvage, and diving equipment. This critical cargo will enable the delicate task of fuel removal from the wreck of the Manawanui.
The passage is expected to take 10–11 days, with Commodore Andrew Brown, the NZDF Senior National Representative for Operation Resolution, cautioning that the timeline is subject to potential delays caused by weather and sea conditions.
Commodore Brown emphasised the importance of thorough preparation, stating, “The salvage companies have been receiving multi-agency support for biosecurity, customs, and regulatory requirements by Maritime New Zealand, along with other checks and approvals prior to departing New Zealand.”
Collaborative Efforts in Samoa
Upon arrival in Samoa, the salvors will spend several days in Apia finalising necessary approvals and permissions with Samoan government officials. These steps are essential before the highly technical process of fuel removal can begin.
To support this phase, NZDF will deploy a team of specialist engineers and dive personnel to Samoa ahead of the salvors’ arrival. Their role will be to provide oversight and professional advice, ensuring that safety and environmental standards are upheld throughout the operation.
Commodore Brown acknowledged the complexity of the task, adding, “It’s important that as we enter this next phase of the operation, we have the right people in the right place to assist the salvors in this highly technical and complex phase of fuel removal.”
Environmental and Strategic Importance
The operation underscores the NZDF’s commitment to environmental stewardship and regional cooperation. Ensuring the safe removal of fuel and pollutants from HMNZS Manawanui is not only vital to protecting Samoa’s marine environment but also serves as an example of collaborative disaster response efforts between nations.
Stay Updated
For the latest imagery and updates on Operation Resolution, visit NZDF’s media hub.
With salvage teams en route and specialist NZDF personnel preparing to support the operation, the groundwork for a successful and environmentally responsible response to the HMNZS Manawanui incident is firmly in place.
