Tongan waters now graveyard

At least 93 people who drowned in the Princess Ashika are likely to be forever buried at sea because the wreck - found yesterday - is too deep.

The ferry, which sank last Wednesday in Tonga, was located about 2km southwest of the Ha'apai group of islands, at 110 metres.

Lieutenant Commander Andrew McMillan, of the Royal New Zealand Navy operational diving team, said divers were unable to conduct recovery operations beyond 50 metres.

"We are sad that, due to the depth of the vessel, this will not lead to closure for the Tongan people," Lieutenant Commander McMillan said.

Another diving tender vessel from New Zealand, HMNZS Manawanui, is due to arrive in Nuku'alofa on Saturday to help with the operation. A remotely operated vehicle will explore the wreck, map the area around the ship and determine what options are available.

Tongan police commander Chris Kelley said the ship was found using the New Zealand Navy's sonar Renus system - an underwater navigation system that detects vessels.

He said the wreck appeared to be intact and lying upright on the sea floor.

However, Mr Kelley said the ship had not been officially identified as the Princess Ashika, but debris and a mooring line had indicated it was the capsized vessel.

"I must emphasise that the onsite team have not visually confirmed the identity of the vessel," he said. "But the sonar information is such - along with other evidence - that we have a high level of confidence it is the Princess Ashika."

The ship sank after a wave struck, forcing all its cargo to one side. Fifty-four men were rescued but up to 93 people, mostly women and children, are presumed drowned.

Two bodies have since been found, including Scotsman Daniel MacMillan, who lived in Christchurch.