- Rt Hon Winston Peters
Rail Minister Winston Peters confirmed Interislander will soon be back to its full complement of vessels ahead of the busier spring and summer months, following Kaitaki returning from scheduled dry-dock on Tuesday 21 September. Kaitaki will resume sailings tomorrow (Saturday 26 September).
"The hand-wringers, backseat admirals, and know-nothing know-it-alls predicted a 'perfect storm' ferry crisis when Interislander scheduled maintenance for Kaiārahi and Kaitaki during the quieter winter period," Mr Peters says.
"They were wrong, but at least they were consistent.
"Despite the usual weather issues and a brief problem with a Bluebridge ferry, the Cook Strait remained open, freight and passengers kept moving, and New Zealand functioned while the maintenance programme proceeded as planned.
"Dry-docking is a routine and essential part of operating ships, and Kaitaki has undergone the maintenance and inspections required to keep her operating safely and reliably until the new ferries arrive in 2029.
"Dry-dock included work on propeller and rudder components, and steering and stabiliser systems, with the vessel also benefiting from a full hull clean, blasting and repainting, including applying a new silicone-based coating designed to reduce marine growth and improve fuel efficiency.
"Interislander reliability in the year to date now stands at 100%, up from 99% in the last financial year - a far cry from the 82% in 2021 and 84% in 2022 recorded under the previous Government.
"That improvement reflects disciplined maintenance and the competence of the masters, engineers, crews, maintainers and operational staff who keep the service running.
"They deserve New Zealanders' thanks for getting on with their jobs while others stood on the sidelines predicting calamity," Mr Peters says.
