Westland Mineral Sands is pleased to report that the barge Manahau was successfully refloated at Carters Beach just after Midday without any harm to its crew or the environment.
The specialist operation started at low tide around 6.30am, delivering fresh water, food and supplies to the 11 crew on board.
Salvors used excavators to retrieve the Manahau’s anchors from the vessel and discharged all ballast (extra weight added to the boat to make it heavier so it remains hard pressed down on the beach) to prepare her for recovery.
When the Salvage Master was satisfied the necessary equipment was in place, the conditions were right and there was no risk to the crew or the environment he gave the green light to begin the operation.
The MMA Vision moved into position, 1250 metres from the Manahau, with a heavy braided tow rope laid out on its deck.
The Blackhawk helicopter hovered over the Vision, attaching one end of the tow rope to its lifting hook and flew the other end for attachment to the Manahau.
The Captain of the MMA vision waited for the incoming tide to bring more water under the barge, slowly took up the strain of the tow rope and gently pulled the Manahau off the beach to safety.
The vessel is stable, the hull is intact and there are no leaks and will now be towed to Nelson.
The 11 crew on board played an integral role in the success of the recovery – they are safe, happy and relieved to be on their way to shore.
“Westland Mineral Sands would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the local community for their understanding throughout this event. We have received countless messages of support, and we are extremely grateful,” says Westland Mineral Sands Managing Director Ray Mudgway.
“We would also like to thank Maritime New Zealand and other local authorities, and the salvage operator for their incredible work. From the night the Manahau ran aground at Carters Beach we have pulled together the best resources and the best recovery team available in New Zealand to run a world class operation with no risk to the crew or to the environment. And they delivered.”
