Collaborative efforts lead the way in HMNZS Manawanui recovery

Tug and barge operations underway

The tug and barge tasked with recovering fuel from the Manawanui have encountered moderate seas during their passage to Samoa but are now approximately halfway to their destination. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, salvors are optimistic that fuel recovery operations will begin later this month.

This update was shared by Commodore Andrew Brown, the NZDF Senior National Representative for Operation Resolution, during a meeting with Samoa’s Marine Pollution Advisory Committee (MPAC).

Operation Resoliution tug and barge underway from Whāngarei

The role of MPAC in the response

MPAC, which convenes twice weekly, comprises representatives from key Samoan government ministries, including Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Environment, and Science and Research. It also benefits from the expertise of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), a 26-country intergovernmental organisation dedicated to sustainable development and environmental protection.

“MPAC is an important forum that the New Zealand Defence Force provides advice to on strategic and operational matters,” said Commodore Brown. “It also hears reports from Samoan authorities and others which then allows the Advisory Committee to report back to their government with informed recommendations for approval.”

MPAC plays a vital role in steering decision-making, ensuring the safe removal of pollutants from the Manawanui and minimising environmental risks.

Gratitude for collaboration

While the grounding of HMNZS Manawanui was an unexpected event for Samoa, Commodore Brown expressed deep appreciation for the support and collaboration shown by the Samoan Government and MPAC.

“The Samoan Government and its people did not anticipate this incident with our ship,” said Commodore Brown. “But the job of mitigating the impact of it is made much easier through the collegial efforts of the MPAC membership and the advisors to it. Myself and the NZDF are thankful for this.”

A united effort for environmental protection

The recovery operation highlights the strength of regional partnerships in addressing complex challenges like marine pollution. With fuel recovery operations set to begin soon, the efforts of the NZDF, Samoan authorities, and MPAC stand as a testament to the power of collaboration in safeguarding the Pacific’s natural resources.

As the recovery effort progresses, it serves as a reminder of the critical importance of environmental stewardship and the shared responsibility of preserving the region’s unique ecosystems.