The Royal New Zealand Navy’s vessel HMNZS Manawanui has sunk after hitting a reef near Samoa’s Upolu Island. The ship, which was on a survey mission, reportedly caught fire before capsizing. All 75 crew members were successfully rescued, although three required hospitalization for injuries.
The cause of the incident remains under investigation. The HMNZS Manawanui, acquired in 2018 for $63.4 million, was primarily used for maritime survey missions. The New Zealand Defence Force expressed deep regret over the loss, calling it a “terrible day” for the nation’s defense operations.
Efforts to salvage the vessel are considered unlikely due to the extent of the damage.
Key Points:
- The Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Manawanui sank after striking a reef near Samoa’s Upolu Island.
- The vessel caught fire and capsized during a survey mission.
- All 75 crew members were rescued; three were hospitalized for injuries.
- The cause of the incident is under investigation.
- Salvage operations are deemed unlikely due to the extent of the damage.
- The vessel was purchased in 2018 for $63.4 million, marking a significant loss for New Zealand’s Defence Force.
