A China Navigation Co (CNCo) bulker that suffered an engine failure off New Zealand last week faces a potential lengthy wait while repairs and the investigation into the incident are carried out.
The 39,784-dwt Funing (built 2015) suffered an engine failure on 6 July while leaving the Port of Tauranga with a maritime pilot on board.
Maritime New Zealand (Maritime NZ) said the Singapore-flagged vessel will complete a towage trial this morning before being towed into the port later today to begin repairs.
“Further investigation and repairs will begin once the vessel has berthed. These could take up to 14 days before the Funing is able to continue with the planned voyage to China,” it added.
Unspecified damage
Maritime NZ said dive inspections had identified unspecified damage to the bulker’s propeller and rudder.
The vessel is said to have snagged the chains holding a buoy marking a shipping channel after the power failure left it without the ability to steer.
“The tide and current then pushed it to the other side of the channel, where it stopped near Mount Maunganui,” Maritime NZ said.
“Port of Tauranga tugs came to its aid, towing it to deeper water and the safe anchorage where it has remained since.”
Maritime NZ said its investigation into the incident was “ongoing” and that it continues to provide support to Port of Tauranga, the local harbourmaster and the Funing’s owners.
All 20 crew will remain on board, where they are safe and comfortable, local authorities said.
