Disabled Log Carrier Towed into NZ Port for Repairs

A log carrier that lost power and went adrift while leaving New Zealand's Port of Tauranga last week has been towed into port for repair and further inspection, local maritime authorities said.

The Singapore-flagged Funing was outbound for Lanshan, China when it suffered engine failure and began drifting amid 30 knot winds and significant swells between Mount Manganui and Matakana Island last Monday.

Powerless and adrift, the vessel snagged the chains holding a channel marker buoy, causing propeller and rudder damage. Tugs from the Port of Tauranga came to Funing's aid, towing the ship to safe anchorage in deeper water where the ship remained until it was towed into port Tuesday.

Authorities said the vessel could be held in port for up to 14 days while undergoing further investigation and repairs before it is cleared to make its planned voyage to China. All 20 crew will remain on board, where they are safe and comfortable, Maritime NZ said.