The fishing vessel Minerva was blown ashore and sank at Port Taranaki, New Zealand. The Minerva had broken free of its mooring due to the heavy seas from the prior night. No one was onboard at the time. The vessel will be evaluated for possible salvage.
The 14 meter long launch went aground in the marina at Tutukaka, New Zealand. The Navy vessel, used to transport important VIPs, struck a charted reef off Tutukaka causing damage to its hull. The vessel’s bow has filled with water and the crew issued a distress call. Luckily, the vessel was able to be beached before it sank. No reports of injuries to the four crew on board or pollution being released. Authorities are conducting an investigation into the incident. The vessel was returning to Auckland from Waitangi Day celebrations in Paihia. Reports state the vessel had been used to transport Queen Elizabeth and other Royals in the past.
The 205 meter long, 5400 dwt cruise shipSeven Seas Voyager suffered damage in severe storm while sailing between Australia and New Zealand. The passenger ship was struck by a large waves reaching 11 meters in height which broke glass and blew furniture off the balconies. A piece of furniture struck an electrical installation causing a small fire. The crew was able to extinguish the fire quickly. No reports of injuries or pollution being released.