Wedoany.com Report on Mar 2nd, The New Zealand road freight industry emphasizes that maintaining the stability of Cook Strait ferry capacity until 2029 has become a critical task following a ferry update meeting held in Blenheim. This meeting, held on February 26 at the Marlborough Events Centre, was hosted by Transporting New Zealand with support from the Marlborough Chamber of Commerce, aiming to plan the deployment of new ferries and onshore infrastructure by 2029.
Dom Kalasih, CEO of Transporting New Zealand, pointed out that safe and reliable Cook Strait ferry services are crucial to the national supply chain. Kalasih said, "Approximately $30 billion worth of goods and thousands of people cross the Strait each year, making the ferry connection a vital extension of State Highway 1." He mentioned that reduced ferry availability during wet and dry dockings is a concern for the road freight industry.
Kalasih stated, "When ferries are taken out of service for maintenance, the fleet can be reduced to two or three vessels for several months. This poses challenges for the road freight industry." The association welcomed the provision of clearer maintenance schedules. Kalasih said, "We are pleased that KiwiRail proactively publishes maintenance plans to assist members in managing demand. Bluebridge has announced it does not plan to dry-dock any ferries this year."
With the retirement of the Aratere ferry and the recovery of economic activity, Kalasih said businesses are reporting pressure on Cook Strait ferry capacity during peak periods. He said, "Ferry operators, the road freight industry, and the government need to work together to ensure sufficient capacity across the Strait until 2029. This update is a positive step." Kalasih was encouraged by the agreement reached between Ferry Holdings, KiwiRail, StraitNZ, and Port Marlborough on the timely delivery of onshore infrastructure.
Kalasih emphasized, "New Zealand should avoid a situation like the Spirit of Tasmania, where the new ship arrived before the port was ready." Ensuring the ferry connection remains safe, reliable, and resilient continues to be a core focus for the association. Following the meeting, Port Marlborough organized a site visit showcasing the early progress of the Picton Waitohi ferry precinct redevelopment project, further supporting the long-term planning for Cook Strait ferry capacity.
