Investigation links HMNZS Manawanui sinking to crew training issues

A maritime historian has linked the sinking of the HMNZS Manawanui to inadequate training on its autopilot and propulsion systems. The Royal New Zealand Navy vessel struck a reef on October 5, leading to a fire and its eventual sinking off Upolu, Samoa. An interim report revealed that human errors caused the grounding, as the crew failed to disengage the autopilot when necessary. The ship remained on autopilot, which led it toward land instead of manual control, which should have been checked. Defence Minister Judith Collins expressed disappointment over the incident but noted that the Navy is addressing the findings seriously. The inquiry highlighted a lack of familiarity with the ship's systems, raising concerns about crew training.