All 75 Rescued After New Zealand Research Vessel Sinks Near Samoa

All 75 crew and passengers aboard the HMNZS Manawanui, a navy vessel conducting a reef survey off Samoa, have been rescued after the ship ran aground and sank. The vessel, which cost the New Zealand government $93 million in 2018, was seen listing heavily and emitting smoke before ultimately capsizing and sinking. Rescuers battled challenging conditions, including strong currents and winds, during the operation to save those on board.

Emergency services in Samoa reported that all crew members were safely collected and treated, with no reported fatalities but some minor injuries. The exact cause of the wreck remains unknown, and efforts are underway to salvage what remains of the vessel. The New Zealand Navy, already operating with reduced capacity due to personnel shortages, is working with authorities to understand and mitigate any environmental impact from the incident.

Rescue operations were coordinated by Samoan emergency services and Australian Defence personnel, with additional support from the Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon. The HMNZS Manawanui is a specialist dive and hydrographic vessel used for various tasks in New Zealand and the South West Pacific. Defence Minister Judith Collins described the incident as a significant challenge and emphasized the importance of learning from the event to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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