MANAHAU

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Latest news

Barge towed to Port Nelson after salvage

The 'MAnahau' has berthed in Port Nelson oni Sep 7 after being successfully refloated and towed 315 kilometers around Farewell Spit before the offshore towing vessel M'MA Vision' brought it into Tasman Bay with the support of the tug 'Kurutai', which then towed the barge into the port, supported by harbour tugs, while the 'MMA Vision' was released to return to New Plymouth. The Westland Mineral Sands had developed and implemented the plan for the salvage and towing operation under the supervision of Maritime NZ. The Tasman and Nelson Harbour Masters were involved prior to the vessel's arrival to ensure safety and environmental protection. The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into the grounding, with a team of investigators inspecting the vessel, recovering the ship's records, interviewing the crew, authorities and any other witnesses. Report with photo: https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/09/08/manahau-barge-berths-in-nelson-after-successful-refloating/

Barge successfully refloated

The 'Manahau' could be pulled off the Carters Beach on Sep 6. Teams had worked since Sep 1 on preparations for freeing the vessel. Ther salvage operations kicked off in the morning, with a helicopter dropping a tow rope to the tug, which was then attached to the 'Manahau', and shortly before midday, the towing operation began with the incoming tide. At about 12.50 p.m. LT, the barge was successfully refloated. Fresh water, food and supplies were delivered to the crew on board before the efforts began. Salvors used excavators to retrieve the anchors from the vessel and discharged all ballast with which the barge was meade heavier so it remained hard pressed down on the beach. The vessel was stable, the hull remained intact and there were no leaks. The 'Manahau' was then towed to Nelson. The vessel's Class Society will need to inspect and provide assurance that suitable repairs have been made before it can be released. The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has opened an inquiry into the grounding, with a team of investigators inspecting the vessel, recovering the ship's records, interviewing the crew, authorities and any other witnesses. Report with photo and video: https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/09/06/grounded-manahau-barge-near-westport-successfully-refloated/

High swell did not permit salvage attempt

Hopes of getting the 'Manahau' refloated from Westport's Carters Beach on Sep 5 at the midday high tide have come to nothing as the swell was too large. Before, the salvage team had made good progress overnight and was spending the day on the preparations. The 'Kurutai' had joined the 'MMA Vision' in Westport. A Blackhawk helicopter arrived about 12.30 p.m. to help connect a towline as required. When the salvage happened would depend on suitable conditions and preparations and precautions being completed to the satisfaction of the salvage master and Maritime New Zealand (MNZ). Safety was the salvage master's top priority in terms of deciding when to attempt to refloat the barge, which was being held on Carters Beach by its own buried anchors and seven five-tonne concrete blocks. High tides will begin to decrease from the weekend, meaning less water around the barge at high tide. Report with photo: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/527153/manahau-barge-recovery-teams-still-preparing-refloat