A shipping operator in the Cook Islands hopes the government will take heed of recommendations made after an inquiry into one of his ships running aground.
In January Taio Shipping's brand new MV Moana Nui hit the reef off Nassau in the Cooks' northern islands, and it is still there.
Tapi Taio blamed debris from fishing vessels, saying discarded rope had caught around the Moana Nui's rudder.
The investigators say the lack of a detailed chart, the lack of radio communication and unfamiliarity with the reef contributed to the grounding.
Mr Taio told Don Wiseman that if the government worked to overcome these problems it would be very beneficial for the country's maritime sector.
In Avatiu harbor, Rarotonga - to the left Lady Moana and Maungaroa II. Photo: Manava Media
Tapi Taio says his company is now planning to remove MV Moana Nui from the Nassau reef and have it taken to American Samoa for repairs.
