A structure housing an underwater observatory in Milford Sound’s Harrison Cove has been partially submerged after a “significant weather event”.
Earlier this week, “multiple strong fronts” impacted the region over a two-day period.
Southern Discoveries, who runs the observatory, said these conditions caused damage to its main building.
The structure of the observatory consists of five interconnected pontoon networks. Initial assessments of its condition show the underwater chamber and kayaking pontoon “are unaffected”, however, the main reception area pontoon has “partially submerged”.
“The main docking pontoon and generator pontoon are visibly leaning.”
“The observatory was closed for scheduled maintenance at the time. No staff, contractors, or guests were onsite at the time of the event which happened overnight.”
Southern Discoveries said it is working with the Department of Conservation and engineers to determine a recovery plan.
“This process is ongoing and includes detailed assessment of the structure above and below the waterline, using a team of commercial divers.
“The plan includes multiple steps incorporating containing any debris, securing the site, assessing next steps, and establishing a recovery plan.”
The recovery so far has consisted of minimising the spread of debris and any environmental issues.
“Early indicators are that there has been minimal impact on the Sound or it’s wildlife. There has been negligible fuel leakage (less than 10 mls) which dissipated within 30 minutes or was captured in debris socks around the site.
“Work has been carried out securing the site including on the link arms holding the pontoons in place.”
