### New Zealand Naval Ship Sinks off Coast of Samoa After Fire

A New Zealand Navy vessel, the HMNZS Manawanui, has tragically sunk after catching fire and running aground near Samoa. The incident took place off the coast of Upolu island while the ship was performing a hydrographic survey. The estimated value of the ship, built in 2003 and acquired by New Zealand in 2018, stands at approximately $63 million USD.

According to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), the HMNZS Manawanui hit the ground on Saturday evening, prompting a swift and well-coordinated evacuation. All 75 crew members and passengers were successfully evacuated by 7:52 p.m. local time. They were assisted by four liferafts and two small inflatable boats, which proved crucial in ensuring the safety of everyone on board.

In a press conference held in Auckland, Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Garin Golding provided a detailed timeline of the events. Smoke was first detected at 6:40 a.m. on Saturday, and by 9 a.m., the ship had capsized and submerged. Rear Admiral Golding praised the commanding officer's quick decision to evacuate the vessel, attributing it to a likely prevention of any loss of life.

Efforts are now underway to mitigate the environmental impact of the incident and to begin salvage operations. The Royal New Zealand Air Force has dispatched a C-130J aircraft to Samoa, carrying medical and welfare personnel to assist and support the evacuated crew and passengers.

The HMNZS Manawanui, which entered service with the Royal New Zealand Navy in 2019, is specialized in dive and hydrographic tasks, including coastal and harbor surveys, underwater explosive disposals, and search and recovery missions.

Maritime Component Commander Commodore Shane Arndell expressed his gratitude for the collaborative rescue efforts. He commended the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) and various responding vessels that safely transferred the crew and passengers from the stricken Manawanui.

The evacuated personnel are expected to be flown back to New Zealand on Sunday. The swift and comprehensive response serves as a testament to the effective emergency procedures and the coordinated efforts of various agencies.