Salvage Crew arrive to remove fuel from sunken HMNZS Manawanui

By Lagi Keresoma/

Apia, Samoa – 13 December 2024 – The salvage crew is already in Samoa but the tug and barge with the salvage equipment is expected to arrive in a “matter of days.”

New Zealand Defence Commodore Brown who is leading the ground work confirmed that “things are really starting to gather momentum, as we work towards removing the fuel and other pollutants from Manawanui.”

In the meantime, they are working collaboratively with the Samoa Scientific Research Organisation (SROS) in carrying out sea water tests and monitoring.

Brown said analysis of sea water conducted shortly after the sinking, showed elevated levels of hydrocarbons which prompted the Samoan Government to implement a precautionary zone which prompted SROS to request assistance from the NZDF in conducting sea water sampling.

“It’s very important for us to help where we can, so we are happy to assist SROS with transport to their testing sites and we also recognise how important this is for the Samoan people on the southern coast,” Brown said.

SROS started their sampling monitoring work yesterday and their findings will be tested at their own laboratories at Nafanua and report results to the Samoan Marine Pollution Advisory Committee who will make decisions on any changes to the current precautionary zone and provide this to the Samoan Government for approval.

Part of the Safata Mangrove reserve.

Ban remains on fishing
Since the Manawanui sinking 6 October 2024, the ban on fishing remains and affected the income and livelihood of many families and fishermen in the Safata district.

Lotofagā mayor Pitoamoa Vaasatia confirmed with Talamua today that fishing is still banned and added the villagers concern over the vessel presence at Safata seabed.

Pitoamoa is however grateful that efforts are moving to remove the diesel fuel and pollutants. “But it’s taking forever as we want our livelihood back,” he said.

Safata district hosts one of the biggest mangrove areas which is home and spawning ground for fish and marine life and there is real concern that marine pollution from the sunk vessel will have a devastating impact.

“We appreciate the importance of the marine and coastal environments to the people of Samoa and while the recovery efforts will take time, New Zealand is absolutely committed to doing the right thing,” said Commander Brown.