Barge removed from Tauranga Bridge Marina after capsizing, crane remains

The main body of the barge that capsized in the Tauranga Bridge Marina has been removed, and some parts of the crane remain. Photo / Brydie Thompson

• The main body of a barge that capsized in Tauranga Bridge Marina has been removed.
• Some parts of the crane remain, but the barge owner is working to remove these, the regional council says.
• Maritime NZ issued a prohibition notice on the barge and is investigating the cause.

The main body of a barge that capsized at Tauranga Bridge Marina has been removed, Bay of Plenty Regional Council says.

A 30m-long barge capsized on March 31 at the Tauranga Bridge Marina, leaving a crane partially submerged in the water.

The council said the barge owner was working with their insurance company to remove the remaining parts of the crane.

An alternative route has been identified and is suitably marked with navigation aids. Photo / Brydie Thompson

A Maritime NZ spokesperson said it was too early to confirm why the barge capsized.

“Once we understand why this incident happened, Maritime NZ will work with the barge owners to ensure all reasonable steps are taken to prevent a recurrence.

“In the meantime, Maritime NZ has put a prohibition notice on the barge involved so it cannot be used.”

About 2.15pm on March 31, Bay of Plenty Regional Council staff were notified that a 30m long barge operating at the Bridge Marina had tipped, partially submerging a crane.

Tauranga Bridge Marina manager Tony Arnold said the barge had completed its contract at the marina and was leaving Tauranga when the incident occurred.

Bay of Plenty harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters said an estimate that 10 litres of diesel had leaked was incorrect, and the estimated amount was much less.

“Absorbent booms were strategically deployed around the area to minimise the impact of this small leakage,” Peters said.

Maritime NZ says it is too early to confirm why the barge capsized.

“There were no adverse effects from the small amount that was discharged. There have been no further leakages since then.

“An alternative route has been identified and is suitably marked with navigation aids.”