Log carrier loses power off New Zealand coast

A Singaporean-registered log carrier has suffered engine failure in the shipping channel at Port of Tauranga between Mauao (Mount Manganui) and Matakana Island, New Zealand.

 The 39,784 dwt ship, Funing, lost power while leaving Tauranga harbour, en route to China, at around 12:30 a.m. (local time) on 6 July.

 Without power, the bulker could not steer and in drifting due to the wind and the tides it snagged the chains holding one of the buoys marking the shipping channel. The tide and currents then pushed it to the other side of the channel, where it stopped near Mauao.

Tugs were sent to the vessel’s assistance and were able to tow it to deeper water and the safe anchorage outside the harbour.

Maritime New Zealand Deputy Director Safety and Response Systems, Nigel Clifford, said it is hoped divers can inspect the vessel in the morning of 7 July, weather permitting. Poor weather and sea conditions prevented the inspection to be carried out on 6 July.

After the inspection, a decision will be made about the need for any repairs and when the vessel can safely continue its voyage to China, according to Maritime NZ.

There are no reports of oil or other pollution from the vessel nor of any injuries to its 20 crew members, Maritime NZ added.

Built in China in 2015, the Handy bulk carrier Funing is owned by Singapore-based China Navigation, VesselsValue’s data shows.