Large New Zealand Navy ship sinks (PHOTOS)

The surveyor vessel HMNZS Manawanui struck a reef and caught fire in the Pacific Ocean

A Royal New Zealand Navy ship has capsized and sunk in the Pacific Ocean after hitting a reef, the New Zealand Defense Force (NZDF) has said.

According to a statement released on Sunday, the hydrographic survey and diving support vessel HMNZS Manawanui ran aground near the southern coast of Samoa’s island of Upolu on Saturday evening. The vessel was on a surveying mission when the incident occurred.

The ship reportedly lost power and drifted onto a reef, where it listed, caught fire and subsequently capsized. “The exact cause of the grounding is unknown and this will need further investigation,” the Navy said, adding that it was working to “minimize the environmental impacts.” Locals now fear a significant oil leaf from the vessel onto the reef it was surveying.

All 75 people on board were rescued and taken ashore in difficult weather by Samoa’s Fire and Emergency Services Authority. Three sailors were hospitalized.

Hal Turner's Comments:

"The Royal New Zealand Navy ship’s HMNZS "Manawanui" sank this morning after running aground on a reef near the southern coast of Upolu, Samoa, last night and catching fire. 

In video below, taken from shore, the vessel is seen listing onto its side, in water that is far too shallow for a vessel of that size to transit.

The ship ultimately caught fire and is sunk.

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