17 Hurt as New Zealand Ferry Hits Devonport Wharf

Sixteen passengers and one crew member suffered injuries when a harbour ferry Kea, sailing from Auckland to Devonport, hit the wharf in the morning hours local time today.

The hit crunched the vessel’s bow, knocking the 61 passengers and crew from their seats.

A police spokeswoman said that the accident might have been caused by a mechanical malfunction.

The ferry’s operator Fuller announced a full investigation to ascertain the cause of the incident.

The injured passengers and the crew member were taken to local medical centres to be treated for suspected broken bones, contusions and concussions.

World Maritime News Staff