1 January 2012 - 3.00PM
Large swells and wind overnight, on top of the heavy swells of the past few days, have caused further damage to the Rena.
- The break in the Rena has opened further but she may still be connected underwater. The extent of the damage will need to be verified by divers but the vessel remains firmly grounded on the reef
- The crack in the Rena which is constantly monitored has opened up resulting in the aft section moving more freely than the forward part
- This is not unexpected, especially with the sea state - the risk of further damage and loss of containers will continue to be likely in heavy weather
- At least two containers have washed overboard
- Braemar's recovery team has been out since first light this morning with four vessels searching for containers lost overboard
- Shipping lanes were scanned with sonar and found to be clear
- A helicopter flight has confirmed more timber and packets of milk powder washed ashore on Motiti Island
- Shoreline surveys have found more debris washed ashore
- Salvors and Maritime New Zealand have been out to the ship this morning to assess the damage and will provide an update for the media at the Operations Centre in Tauranga at 2 pm this afternoon.
For further information contact:
Maritime New Zealand Media Line
Phone 04 499 7318
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