Aug 06 - Raoul Island resupply
TE MANA made a short visit to Raoul Island, 1100km NNE of New Zealand, from 23-31 August 2006. During her visit the crew conducted a Department of Conservation re-supply, and participated in memorial services for DOC worker Mark Kearney.
Photo: Helo ops on TEM's focsle
FAREWELL ON RAOUL IS.
By Mid Marais
Department of Conservation worker Mark Kearney disappeared on 17 March 2006 after a short eruption rattled Raoul Island. Mr Kearney was collecting water samples of Green Lake in the crater of the largest volcano in the Kermadec Island group when the volcanic region released some of her enormous pressure. It is believed Mr Kearney died instantly, however his body has not been located. In memory of Mr Kearney and also as part of a re-supply mission to the Island, HMNZS TE MANA sailed from Auckland to Raoul Island at the end of August with special guests and some media.
Prior to departure, a powhiri was held in the hangar to welcome Minister of Conservation Chris Carter, Iwi representatives from Ngati Kuri, and Merryn McDermott (Mr Kearney’s sister) onto the ship. After two days at sea TE MANA anchored north of Raoul Is. Mr Kearney's sister was met by five of her brother’s co-workers, who were evacuated after the eruption. Iwi members and Ms McDermott took part in a Sunday ceremony on Raoul to lift the tapu on the island and to erect a plaque in memory of Mr Kearney on his favourite spot on the Island.
Photo: TEM's crew ashore at Raoul Island flagpole.
WORKING PARTIES
By Mid McGee
Whilst HMNZS TE MANA was at Raoul Island, we also assisted Department of Conservation personnel with the general upkeep of tracks and roads on the island. A workload that would take the six permanent DOC personnel weeks to achieve was finished in no time with the help of the enthusiastic TE MANA working party.
The work on the island was accomplished by manpower with the aid of shovels, spades, picks and machetes. With temperatures reaching over 20 degrees before 0900, it was a hard slog at times. It looked like a scene from a prison film; the overalls tied off at the waist and of course the sweat. The only thing missing was a 40 metre chain secured around the ankles of each labourer. Overall it was a great experience and was embraced in good spirit as it involved teamwork and a little bit of shore time for those who volunteered.