News

CentrePort today joined with Minister for Rail Winston Peters in announcing the Government’s investment to continue to progress the Cook Strait Ferry Replacement programme. 

CentrePort Board Chair Lachie Johnstone says CentrePort remains committed to supporting this project and working collaboratively with the multiple parties involved. 

“This is another positive milestone to have reached in the programme and heralds more clarity about what will be delivered,” Johnstone says. 

He echoes the Minister’s comments about the new ferries being a generational investment that considers value, resilience and sustainability. 

“CentrePort places a high value on these things as a private entity that is owned by two shareholding councils. We like to ensure that what we do is good for business and for people, which this project will provide for the benefit, safety and resilience of freight and passengers across the Cook Strait.” 

Mr Johnstone says that confirming a ‘minimum viable and maximum reuse’ approach to the project’s maritime infrastructure will still offer long-term benefits and allows for the region’s longer-term aspirations for a multi-user ferry terminal located at Kaiwharawhara, which would be considered in the future. 

“The design specification requires that the connections to the new ferries (by vehicle, rail car or on foot) from the port will meet an operational lifespan of 30 years. CentrePort can meet this requirement while focusing on reusing what works and only upgrading the essentials.” 

CentrePort looks forward to working with Ferry Holdings, KiwiRail, Port Marlborough and Government Ministers as the Ferry Replacement Programme progresses and to celebrating further milestones on the passage to new ferries being delivered and put into service from 2029. 

Visit the Ferry Holdings Ltd. website 

CentrePort information - Cook Strait Ferry Infrastructure Project

For queries, please contact: 

Andree Kai Fong 
CentrePort Communications and Engagement Manager 
Email: andree.kaifong@centreport.co.nz