NZ Navy Vessel Catches Fire and Sinks Near Samoa, 75 Rescued

It’s not known exactly why the HMNZS Manawanui hit a reef and sank off the coast of the Samoan island of Upolu, but early reports suggested engine failure.

A shipment of cocaine floats on the surface of the Pacific Ocean with Royal New Zealand Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui behind, in a file photo. NZ Police via AP

A Royal New Zealand Navy specialist dive and hydrographic vessel, the HMNZS Manawanui, has caught fire, capsized, and sunk off the coast of the Samoan island of Upolu while surveying a reef on the night of Oct. 5.

All 75 crew and passengers were rescued; two people needed hospital treatment for minor injuries, one with a dislocated shoulder and another with back injuries.