HMNZS MANAWANUI A09
Modern, versatile, capable
MANAWANUI was commissioned into the RNZN on 5 April 1988 to support diving and mine counter-measure operations. Originally built in the UK in 1979 as an oil rig tender, the STAR PERSEUS. Designed for operations in the North Sea, she has a long low working deck aft with her superstructure forward and bluff bows for good seakeeping.
Specifications:
Standard Displacement: 911 tonnes
Length Overall: 43 metres
Beam: 9.5 metres
Draught: 3.2 metres
Speed: 11 knots
Range: 5,000 nautical miles
Complement: 24 Officers and ratings
Propulsion: Two Caterpillar marine diesels (565 hp)
Two shafts
Bow thrusters
Diesel with CPP (Controllable Pitch Propeller)
The Operational Dive Team (ODT) frequently work on board MANAWANUI. The ODT are the premier divers of the RNZN, trained for deep diving with mixed gases, underwater demolition and unexploded ordnance disposal.
MANAWANUI is fitted with modern systems including a triple lock compression chamber (to 250ft), a wet diving bell, a 15-tonne crane and workshop facilities including electric and gas welding equipment and a lathe. With a range of 5000 nautical miles, MANAWANUI can also undertake peacekeeping and maritime security missions around the New Zealand coast and in the South Pacific or across to Southeast Asia to protect the security and prosperity of New Zealanders.