Interislander Ferry Kaiarahi Returns to Wellington Due to Technical Issues

A ferry operated by Interislander, named the Kaiarahi, was compelled to return to Wellington shortly after departing for Picton on the afternoon of March 15, 2024. The vessel encountered technical difficulties that emerged before it could navigate the Tory Channel.

Wellington Harbour Master Grant Nalder confirmed the incident in a statement to NZME, indicating that the ferry left Wellington at approximately 15:30 local time. Passengers aboard reported that the issue was related to steering, although it was emphasized that this did not compromise the overall control of the ferry.

Passengers expressed their concerns on social media, sharing their experiences during the unexpected turn of events. One individual noted that they were informed about the steering problem shortly after departure, which led to the decision to return to port for safety reasons.

As the ferry made its way back, authorities worked to assess the situation and ensure that safety protocols were followed. The Kaiarahi is one of several ferries that operate across the Cook Strait, a key transport route connecting the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

The swift response by the crew and local maritime authorities underscores the importance of safety in maritime operations. Passengers were advised to await further information regarding the rescheduling of their journey to Picton.

Interislander has not yet provided a timeline for when the Kaiarahi will be back in service. The company is expected to release updates as more details become available regarding the technical issues encountered.