On May 24, 2025, an explosion occurred in the engine room of the Malta-registered bulk carrier M.V. Olivia while it was docked at South Port in Bluff, New Zealand. The incident resulted in injuries to three crew members, prompting an investigation by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC).
Incident Date: May 24, 2025
Location: South Port, Bluff, New Zealand
Vessel: M.V. Olivia, a Malta-registered bulk carrier
Injuries: Three crew members injured, two seriously
Investigation: Launched by TAIC as a serious marine casualty
Details of the Incident
The explosion occurred while the crew was performing maintenance work on a boiler in the engine room. Reports indicate that the explosion was either a flashback or a sudden blast, which led to injuries among the crew members. Emergency services, including St John Ambulance and Fire and Emergency New Zealand, responded promptly to the scene.
The injured crew members were assessed on-site, with two reported to be in serious condition and one in moderate condition. They were subsequently transported to Southland Hospital for further medical care. Fortunately, the fire that resulted from the explosion was quickly extinguished by the ship’s crew before the arrival of fire services.
Vessel Information
Name: M.V. Olivia
Type: Bulk Carrier
Length: 180 meters
Flag: Malta
Arrival at South Port: April 22, 2025
Scheduled Departure: May 29, 2025
The M.V. Olivia had been moored at berth 11 at South Port, where it was in the process of loading logs. The vessel had previously departed from the Port of Bintulu in Malaysia on March 25, 2025.
Investigation Process
The TAIC has classified the explosion as a “serious marine casualty” under the International Maritime Organization’s Casualty Investigation Code. This classification mandates a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the incident and to assess any potential safety violations or operational failures.
TAIC officials are currently gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing maintenance records related to the incident. The investigation aims to provide insights that could prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Conclusion
The explosion aboard the M.V. Olivia highlights the inherent risks associated with maritime operations, particularly during maintenance activities. As the investigation unfolds, further details regarding the circumstances leading to the explosion and the condition of the injured crew members are expected to emerge. The maritime community will be closely monitoring the findings of the TAIC to enhance safety protocols and ensure the well-being of crew members in the industry.
Sources
Three injured in blast on bulk carrier in Bluff, New Zealand, Baird Maritime.
Explosion On Bulk Carrier At South Port Injures Three Crew Members, Marine Insight.
Three Injured in Boiler Explosion on Bulker in New Zealand, The Maritime Executive.
Three Injured in Engine Room Explosion Aboard Bulk Carrier in New Zealand, gCaptain.
TAIC launches investigation into engine room explosion, safety4sea.
