A Westland Mineral Sands barge, owned by WMS Group, ran aground near Westport during a thunderstorm overnight.
The barge, named Manahau, came ashore on Carters Beach, but all 11 crew members are safe, and there are no environmental concerns, according to WMS Group.
The barge had been anchored off Westport since last Sunday, waiting for good weather to enter the port. Severe thunderstorms changed its course, causing it to drift ashore. Mayor Jamie Cleine said that the barge needs to be pulled back into the water, but a tugboat is required, and none are nearby.
Maritime Union’s Carl Findlay expressed concerns about the lack of a tugboat in the area, calling it a “real worry.” The barge is currently stable, with no signs of an oil spill, and was seen partially afloat on the sandbar. There were no reports of damage or injuries, although the barge’s crew was not from New Zealand, which had been a concern for local seafarers. The barge, recently launched in August, is used to transport mineral sands between Westport and Nelson.
