Dry-docked 70m research vessel, Tangaroa

Babcock NZ dry-docked the 70 metre, 2,291 grt research survey vessel Tangaroa in August 2018 to undergo a 16 day survey, preservation and maintenance work package.

RV Tangaroa is operated by the New Zealand National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research conducting fisheries research in New Zealand’s Exclusive Economic Zone and marine research the waters surrounding Antarctica. Tangaroa is equipped for hydrographic, bathymetric and oceanographic surveys to measure and map various properties of the ocean and seabed; biological surveys; and for both acoustic and trawl fisheries surveys.

Tangaroa is a regular visitor to our Auckland dry-dock and the 2018 work package included installation of a replacement harbour generator which required outfitting removals/ replacement and modifications of electrical cabling and sea water cooling pipework. A trawl net monitor hydrophone pod was fabricated and mounted on the existing hull sonar gondola. Other underwater equipment and survey works included ship side valves, anchor cables and hull anodes.

Boiler valves and fittings were serviced and cooling water cross ducts and ventilation ducts cleaned. A significant preservation package was completed included; water blasting and painting of underwater hull and topsides; preservation of superstructure and A-Frame gantries; application of new NIWA logos; and cleaning and painting of ballast tanks and grey water tank spaces.

Tangaroa was original planned for 18 days, but as vessel operational requirements allowed only 16 days, Babcock’s Marine services Team were able to work with the NIWA Vessel Management Team and Babcock’s production staff and subcontractors to complete in the time available, with two shifts worked on the harbour generator exhausts, cooling and fuel pipework to enable the installation through to start up to be completed within 10 days.