KiwiRail welcomes the Government’s decision confirming it will operate the two new rail enabled Cook Strait ferries for 30 years.
“KiwiRail has operated Interislander services for more than 60 years, and this decision reflects the experience, operational capability and professionalism our people bring to running a safe daily reliable Cook Strait service,” KiwiRail Chief Executive, Peter Reidy says.
“The Government quite rightfully made it clear KiwiRail needed to demonstrate its capability through strong performance, and I would like to thank all our team who showed we can deliver. The arrangement will be reviewed after 10 years, in 2039, and we are confident we will continue to earn that trust by delivering a safe, reliable and customer-focused service every day.”
KiwiRail’s focus has been on continual improvement and delivering a safe and reliable service for all our passengers and commercial customers every day.
In the last financial year, the Interislander fleet’s reliability to sail has been over 99% excluding weather.
“Our priority has always been running today’s fleet safely and reliably for everyone on board from international tourists to everyday freight users. That is the strongest demonstration of our capability as an operator, and that focus will continue.
“The increased capacity, and reliability that comes with the new fleet is an exciting opportunity to build further on the service we can offer our passengers and freight customers.”
As the owner of the new ships, the Government and Ferry Holdings Ltd have named them Kupe and Cook.
KiwiRail will continue working closely with Ferry Holdings Ltd, the ports and other partners to support the new infrastructure and delivery of the new ferries to ensure a smooth transition into service.
“Port Marlborough NZ and CentrePort are already underway on early construction work, and later this year KiwiRail begins work on the Dublin Street overbridge in Waitohi Picton to ensure the ongoing connection across both sides of town.
“Our people are helping shape the design of the new ships, using real world experience to ensure they are practical, safe and fit for purpose. Everything we’re doing reflects our commitment to delivering a reliable, resilient Cook Strait connection for New Zealand.”