The New Zealand Coastal vessel Spirit of Resolution is sheltering at anchor at New Plymouth awaiting improved weather before it continues being towed to Lyttelton. The vessel grounded while leaving the Manukau Harbour on Saturday (Sep 18). She got off by herself after about 10minutes but had rudder damage. She proceeded towards New Plymouth with cargo and for repairs, but the port was closed. She planned to continue to Lyttelton but due to steering failure was taken under tow by Westgate tug. The weather was too severe so she had to call for a more powerful tug and diverted to New Plymouth to anchor waiting for conditions to ease, which are expected on Thursday. She will then proceed under tow from New Plymouth to Lyttelton for diver inspection to confirm damage. It is expected to need a replacement rudder. She is due in Lyttelton on Monday.
Damaged Rudder After Grounding