Ferry announcement welcome news

The Government’s signing of a contract for two new rail-enabled Cook Strait ferries and confirmation of the port improvements needed in Wellington and Picton to accommodate the new ships is welcome news, KiwiRail Chief Executive Peter Reidy says.

“There is still a lot of work to do ahead of the new ferries arriving in 2029, but this announcement is another milestone in securing the crucial rail connection between the North and South islands.

“The new ferries will ensure the competitive operating cost for rail freight and increased capacity for road transport operators and passengers.”

Mr Reidy says KiwiRail is working closely with Ferry Holdings Ltd, CentrePort and Port Marlborough NZ on the rail and customer experience aspects of the ferry design and landside infrastructure.

“There will be temporary changes at both Wellington and Picton as the two port companies carry out their infrastructure upgrades, and we will work closely with them to ensure there is minimal impact on customers.

“KiwiRail will be making some rail and vehicle yard changes at the two terminals, to align them with the new port infrastructure. We are also leading the delivery of a new road bridge over the rail line in Picton’s Dublin Street, improving safety by removing the existing rail level crossing. This builds upon State Highway improvements NZTA is undertaking in the area and Marlborough District Council’s planned truck park.”

The Dublin St overbridge is currently going through the design process.

“Until the new ships arrive, Interislander will continue providing a reliable and safe Cook Strait service with our current ferries Kaitaki and Kaiārahi,” Mr Reidy says.

“Interislander’s reliability remains at 100 per cent for the financial year to date and was on target at 98 per cent the previous year. Our road bridging operation for rail freight is running well, and we are ready for the busy summer peak.”