Akaroa boat sinking

What you need to know about the Nīkau Palm Valley Bay vessel incident

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Following the Saturday 31 January incident involving the Black Cat vessel at Nīkau Palm Valley Bay, Akaroa, our teams remain on site today progressing the response and overseeing a safe recovery plan.

Initial assessments undertaken on Monday show the vessel has sustained more significant damage than originally anticipated. It is likely that the full amount of marine diesel fuel that was on the vessel has been released to the sea; observations are showing us that the environment is coping with the release of this fuel, with sheens decreasing throughout the day.

Wildlife specialists are on standby, and precautions are in place to mitigate any potential impacts to the surrounding environment. No wildlife in distress has been observed at this time.

Recovery planning underway

We are working closely with iwi partners, the Department of Conservation, the vessel owner and specialist salvage team to progress a safe and coordinated recovery operation.

Our focus is on protecting the environment and ensuring the recovery is carried out safely and in a way that minimises further risk to the environment.

“This is a complex operation, and we appreciate the support of all agencies and the local community as we work through the safest approach,” said Emma Parr, Regional On‑Scene Commander.

Current planning indicates the recovery will occur in two phases:

  • Phase 1: Moving the vessel into deeper water, where it can be submerged in a controlled manner to prevent further structural damage from wind and sea conditions. This is anticipated to happen over the next 24 hours. 
  • Phase 2: Once stabilised, the vessel will be lifted and removed from the area. The timing of this will depend on weather, sea conditions, and operational safety requirements. 

Exclusion zone remains in place

An exclusion zone continues to be enforced around the vessel, and all non‑response vessels must keep clear to ensure the safety of those working on site.

Further updates will be provided as the response progresses.

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