Rear Admiral Garin Golding has received an interim report from the Court of Inquiry into the recent sinking of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) ship HMNZS Manawanui, which ran aground with 75 people on board in Samoa during a hydrographic survey on Saturday, 5 October. The vessel later sank on Sunday, 6 October.
The inquiry has been tasked with investigating the sequence of events leading up to the grounding and eventual sinking of the ship. According to Rear Admiral Golding, the Court of Inquiry has made strong progress with evidence collection and interviews. The initial findings focus on what transpired during the incident, with a full analysis on why it occurred and the lessons to be learned to follow in the final report.
Rear Admiral Golding stated, “I will now take the time required to review the interim report to gain an understanding of what the findings are at this point in proceedings.”
The interim report will also undergo an independent review by King’s Counsel to ensure thoroughness and objectivity. Following this review, the Navy plans to publicly release key details from the report later this month.
Rear Admiral Golding acknowledged that the public has been eagerly awaiting answers, noting, “We are committed to conducting this inquiry as thoroughly and transparently as possible. I am aware of the desire to have answers, and while it is important the Court works expeditiously, it is also vital to respect the process and carefully step our way through it.”
Rear Admiral Golding extended his gratitude to the inquiry members and witnesses who have contributed to the investigation, underscoring that their efforts will shape future protocols and preventive measures for similar operations.
The final report is expected by the end of February 2025 and will undergo another independent legal review. The NZDF anticipates releasing further information to the public by late March 2025, although these timelines remain approximate and may shift as the investigation proceeds.
This inquiry aims not only to bring clarity to the events surrounding HMNZS Manawanui’s loss but also to reinforce NZDF’s commitment to operational safety and preparedness.
