Maritime New Zealand is pleased with fines handed to a ship's captain

Captain Walter Damian and Chief Officer Ian Dalingding of bulk carrier Emile Bulker, have been fined more than 17 thousand dollars after lying when a crewman passed out from a lack of oxygen.

The Isle of Man-flagged vessel was at Tauranga's Port.

Maritime NZ's Central Region Compliance Manager, Michael-Paul Abbott says enclosed spaces are a well-known risk.

He says there has been numerous casualties on bulk carriers from a lack of oxygen.

The victim was awarded reparation of ten thousand dollars.