Witnesses Sought After Black Cat Ferry Grounds in Akaroa Harbour
On Saturday, a significant incident involving the Black Cat ferry occurred in Akaroa Harbour, prompting an investigation by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC). The commercial passenger vessel, measuring 17 meters in length, was carrying 38 passengers along with three crew members during a wildlife cruise.
Investigation Underway for Akaroa Harbour Incident
Following the grounding of the ferry, all passengers and crew were safely evacuated to nearby vessels. Remarkably, no injuries were reported. Subsequently, the Black Cat ferry began to list and was eventually beached.
Appeal for Witnesses
TAIC Chief Investigator Louise Cook has called for witnesses to come forward. The Commission is particularly interested in individuals who saw, photographed, or filmed the incident. Cook emphasized, “Getting the facts straight is vital.” She urged anyone with relevant information to contact the Commission as soon as possible.
Investigation Focus
A dedicated team of investigators will travel to Akaroa to commence the inquiry. Their primary goal is to gather evidence that may be pivotal for understanding the incident. This includes:
- Recovering any wreckage from the scene
- Securing electronic records such as photos and videos
- Interviewing witnesses
The investigation will also delve into the vessel’s history, performance, maintenance, and design, providing a comprehensive analysis of the circumstances surrounding the grounding.
Significance of the Inquiry
The Commission opens inquiries in situations where accidents could have substantial implications for transport safety. Findings from this investigation may lead to valuable recommendations aimed at enhancing safety outcomes in similar scenarios.
If you were present during the incident or have any information to share, please reach out to the Transport Accident Investigation Commission via email at [email protected]. Your input could be crucial for ensuring safety on the waters of Akaroa Harbour.
