Cargo damaged as ship hits storm

A Pacifica Shipping coastal vessel berthed in Wellington today with its cargo damaged by overnight storms.

The Spirit of Competition lost power when it was struck by a southerly gale in Cook Strait.

The company said none of the crew was injured, but some cargo damage had occurred.

The Maritime Safety Authority has been advised of the incident.

Pacifica's vessel manager Anita Gardner said the ship was approaching Wellington harbour when it lost power in high seas and storm winds.

"In the few minutes it took to restore power the violent rolling motion damaged several freight trailers and cars on board," Ms Gardner said.

"The ship made its own way into port and a tug assisted the ship to berth."

Cargo damage was being assessed today by the company and clients.

- NZPA