On Friday, the inter‑island ferry MV Awka suffered an engine failure while sailing between Anuta and Vanikoro in Temotu Province. The malfunction left the vessel adrift about 100 nautical miles from its destination, with more than 70 passengers on board.

A French aircraft operating from New Caledonia was the first to arrive on Saturday, dropping life rafts and desalination equipment. Later, aircraft from Australia and New Caledonia made several drops of food, water, medical supplies and communication gear.

On Sunday morning the Panama‑registered bulk carrier Sunnine 3 reached the ferry and began transferring fresh water and food to the stranded passengers.

Passengers kept contact with families through the ship’s Starlink satellite internet. Nurse John Tua, who was aboard, posted regular updates and shared the live feed of the bulk carrier’s aid delivery.

The incident shows that remote Pacific islands depend heavily on international air‑drops, commercial vessels and satellite communications to manage maritime emergencies. It also highlights the logistical challenges of rescuing people far from any port.