A New Zealand Navy ship has capsized off Samoa after running aground and catching fire.

All 75 crew of the HMNZS Manawanui were rescued, with two people taken to hospital.

The ship, which is based in Gisborne was conducting a survey.

A New Zealand Navy ship has capsized off Samoa after running aground and catching fire.
A New Zealand Navy ship has capsized off Samoa after running aground and catching fire. (Supplied)

The Royal New Zealand Navy said in a statement the ship was one nautical mile from shore.

The 75 crew and passengers began evacuating into lifeboats at 7.52 pm, before being taken ashore by rescue ships, it said.

“We are very grateful for the assistance of everyone involved, from RCCNZ who coordinated rescue efforts, to the vessels which responded and took our crew and passengers from Manawanui to safety,” Maritime Component Commander Commodore Shane Arndell, said.

Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority shared photos of the Royal New Zealand Navy sailors online after their ship sank.
Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority shared photos of the Royal New Zealand Navy sailors online after their ship sank. (Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority)

According to the New Zealand navy, the ship, which entered service in 2019, is a “modern and capable platform for diving and hydrographic specialists to embark and conduct specialised operations.”

It says it’s missions include “coastal and harbour survey, underwater explosive disposal, underwater search and recovery, and limited mine countermeasures.”

An Australian navy ship is now on the way to help.

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