Important Information regarding the Updated Craft Risk Management Standard’s for Biofouling from New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries.
Recently a vessel was stopped from completing its discharge, as it was in breach of MPI standards for Biofouling. It was an expensive operation for the owners of the vessel which was sent back out of NZ Territorial waters in order to have its hull cleaned. They had to employ a dive crew to get the vessel up to spec in International waters before being able to return to NZ to complete their discharge.
We recommend all vessels familiarise themselves with the MPI standards, downloadable here, before entering New Zealand waters to avoid any breaches of standard or unforeseen expense.