Press Release – New Zealand Defence Force

It was reported yesterday morning the ROV operating from the Royal New Zealand Navy Diving Tender, HMNZS MANAWANUI had formally identified the sunken vessel on the seabed as the PRINCESS ASHIKA.

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa
Media Release
Wednesday 19 August, 2009
EMBARGOED UNTIL 1700 NZ Time Wed 19 August
Royal New Zealand Navy Remote Operating Vehicle Formally Identifies Sunken Tongan Ferry Princess Ashika – Imagery Has Been Released

It was reported yesterday morning the ROV operating from the Royal New Zealand Navy Diving Tender, HMNZS MANAWANUI had formally identified the sunken vessel on the seabed as the PRINCESS ASHIKA.

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

The ROV identified the vessel by reading the name plate. The conditions on the surface are not favourable but the Navy Team is continuing with their efforts. The water clarity is reported to be very good and this has allowed the team to be able to conduct a good, thorough search of the sunken vessel.

One side of the PRINCESS ASHIKA is obstructed and the ROV is unable to see into the passenger compartment. The vessel is sitting flat on the seabed and appears to be intact.

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

The ROV has been able to enter the cargo hold and is providing information to the Transport Accident Investigation Commission Investigator.

The images attached were gathered during the RNZN ROV mission yesterday and have been released with the permission of the Prime Minister of Tonga – but please note the embargo.

ENDS

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

Image: Royal New Zealand Navy

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