The Transport Accident Investigation Commission is appealing for witnesses who saw, photographed or videoed the Black Cat ferry that grounded in Akaroa Harbour on 31 January 2026.

Louise Cook, the Chief Investigator of Accidents, says the Commission has opened an inquiry into the accident.

Reportedly the 17-metre commercial passenger vessel Black Cat had a total of 38 passengers and 3 crew on board for a wildlife cruise when it grounded. The people were evacuated to other nearby vessels with no injuries initially reported. The vessel then started to list and so was beached.

“TAIC is appealing for any witnesses,” said Ms Cook. “Getting the facts straight is vital, so we’re keen to hear as soon as possible from people who were on this vessel and anyone who saw the accident, and we’re particularly keen to receive videos or photographs.

Those wishing to contact TAIC can do so on at www.taic.org.nz, or email info@taic.org.nz.

The Commission has appointed a dedicated investigation team, who will be travelling to Akaroa as soon as practicable.

The team’s evidence collection work is broad at first to support the many routes that an investigation could follow. The initial focus is on gathering evidence that could disappear or change – not just flotsam from the impact, but also memories while they’re fresh in people’s minds.

Over the next several days, TAIC’s investigators will be seeking and recovering any wreckage where possible, securing electronic records – including photos, videos, and location data on people’s cellphones – and interviewing witnesses.

As well as interviewing people, we are interested in the vessel, their individual and type histories, performance, maintenance, equipment and design.

The Transport Accident Investigation Commission opens an inquiry when it believes the circumstances of an accident or incident have - or are likely to have - significant implications for transport safety, or when the inquiry may allow the Commission to make findings or recommendations to improve transport safety.

https://taic.org.nz/contact-us/witness-report

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