MO-1996-213

On Sunday 15 December 1996, at about 0955, the fast passenger launch "Mack Attack" collided with a dinghy under way in the western approaches to Paihia Wharf. One of the dinghy's four occupants was drowned. Causal factors included failure by the skipper of "Mack Attack" to keep an adequate lookout and the vessel's excessive speed in the proximity of other craft and structures. Recommendations include the need for more speed regulation notices, lifejacket awareness notices, and for operational standing orders.