The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has announced further salvage operations on the HMNZS Manawanui, which sank off Samoa in 2024. The latest phase of Operation Resolution focuses on removing equipment, debris, and hazardous materials to mitigate environmental risks and ensure the wreck remains stable. This follows extensive work to recover diesel fuel and other pollutants, demonstrating New Zealand’s ongoing commitment to environmental protection and its strong relationship with Samoa.
Clearing the wreck: A necessary next step
With the initial recovery phase completed, the focus has now shifted to addressing potential hazards still present on and around the wreck. Commodore Andrew Brown, Senior National Representative, emphasised the importance of this additional work, stating:
“After the diesel fuel and other pollutants recovery phase, we are taking advantage of an additional work clause in the contract with the salvors to clear some equipment and debris from in and around HMNZS Manawanui.”
This latest operation requires the expertise of highly specialised divers and salvage teams, ensuring the safe retrieval of remaining equipment, weapons, and ammunition that could pose a future risk. Removing loose debris is a priority, as any unsecured materials could break free and impact the marine environment.
Environmental and safety considerations
Minimising environmental harm remains a key objective. Commodore Brown reiterated the NZDF’s commitment to reducing the wreck’s potential impact:
“We are focused on doing all we can to minimise any potential impact on the environment and the Samoan community by clearing these items and returning them to New Zealand for safe disposal.”
The wreck’s location on the reef necessitates a careful and methodical approach to ensure that marine life and habitats are not further disrupted. As part of this process, the NZDF is conducting a comprehensive wreck assessment, which includes independent expert studies of the vessel, the reef, and surrounding waters. These findings will play a critical role in determining the next steps and informing discussions between the New Zealand and Samoan governments.
Weather delays and ongoing operations
Salvage operations are inherently dependent on sea and weather conditions. Recent adverse weather has temporarily forced the salvors’ barge to leave its mooring for safety. However, as Commodore Brown confirmed, work will resume as soon as conditions allow:
“The barge will be back above Manawanui once conditions allow to continue this important work.”
These delays highlight the challenges of working in open ocean environments, where unpredictable conditions can dictate the pace of operations. Despite these hurdles, the salvage team remains committed to completing this phase as efficiently as possible.
What’s next for HMNZS Manawanui?
The future of HMNZS Manawanui remains under consideration, with ongoing assessments set to guide decision-making. Commodore Brown, who has been stationed in Samoa for five months overseeing the operation, is returning to New Zealand for strategic discussions. His meetings with key decision-makers will help shape the long-term plan for the wreck and ensure continued transparency with both the New Zealand and Samoan governments.
“This is a good opportunity for me to engage with the strategic decision-makers and provide ‘face to face’ updates,” he said.
As the situation evolves, discussions will likely focus on whether the wreck should be further secured in its current location, removed, or left as an artificial reef. The results of the independent expert assessments will be crucial in shaping this decision.
A commitment to doing the right thing
Since its sinking, the HMNZS Manawanui wreck has remained a point of concern for both New Zealand and Samoa. Operation Resolution underscores the NZDF’s commitment to responsible action, ensuring the wreck does not pose long-term risks to marine ecosystems or local communities. The additional salvage phase not only removes immediate hazards but also strengthens diplomatic ties by demonstrating New Zealand’s willingness to uphold environmental and safety standards.
For now, the salvage team continues its meticulous work, balancing the complexities of underwater operations with the unpredictable forces of nature. As further assessments are completed, both nations will have clearer options on how to manage the wreck going forward. Until then, Operation Resolution remains a crucial effort in ensuring that the legacy of HMNZS Manawanui does not become an environmental liability.
