3 Nov 2010

Navy apologises after sailors damage house

7:36 pm on 3 November 2010

Two sailors are to be interviewed by the Navy about an incident at a Nelson house which left a family fearing for their safety.

The sailors have written letters of apology to Felicity Hurst, her 19-year-old daughter, 17-year-old son and a friend.

Ms Hurst says the drunken sailors from HMNZS Taupo broke two windows, smashed panels in the front door and tried to force it open on Tuesday night.

She says she has received payment for damage to the house and a car, which was kicked.

A spokesperson for the Navy, Captain Dean McDougall, says the incident is deeply regretted.

Captain McDougall says if the sailors are convicted at the hearing on Thursday, they face penalties including imprisonment and dismissal.