Judge Snell noted the company’s upfront payment of $65,000 to the whānau, in recognition of the emotional harm done, which negated the need for court-ordered reparation. Judge Snell said the bridge was not well lit, which meant Puata was unable to make basic observations. The person who found him alerted the ship’s medic, but he could not be saved, Judge Snell said. The best he could have offered was palliative care to “make his passing more peaceful”, Judge Snell said. Judge Tony Snell Judge Snell noted the company’s upfront payment of $65,000 to the whānau, in recognition of the emotional harm done.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 13, 2026 10:21 UTC