A Singaporean-registered log carrier, Funing, lost engine power in the shipping channel at Port of Tauranga on Monday between Mauao (Mount Manganui) and Matakana Island, outbound to China.
The vessel dropped anchors and is holding itself in position. Two tugs are with the vessel and providing support. They were able to tow it to deeper water and a safe anchorage.
Maritime NZ Deputy Director Safety and Response Systems, Nigel Clifford, said no oil or other pollution has been reported from the vessel nor any injuries to the crew.
Tauranga port authorities have set up a response centre to manage the event. Maritime NZ has established a team to provide coordination and support.
Twenty crew were on board, plus a maritime pilot from Port of Tauranga. Weather and sea conditions at the time of the engine failure were fairly poor, with a 30 knot wind and significant swell.
