Centreport Continues Its Big Ship Agenda

Centreport Continues Its Big Ship Agenda

CentrePort Wellington, New Zealand’s third largest port is future proofing its business with the imminent arrival of Tapuhi – its state-of-the-art tug boat which will replace older and lower powered tugs.

The investment forms part of CentrePort’s plans to become one of New Zealand’s most advanced big-ship capable ports.

The new, powerful, fuel efficient tug, capable of pulling 68 tonnes, will partner CentrePort’s modern tug Tiaki, to help “future proof” the company, and ensure the region can continue to welcome record numbers of cargo and cruise vessels.

The Tapuhi and the Tiaki tugs will enhance the port’s ability to safely service a modern shipping fleet of larger vessels, which was made obvious this cruise season with the size of vessels reaching lengths up to 345 metres.

Chief Executive Blair O’Keeffe said the acquisition of a new tug was a significant capital investment that demonstrated the Board’s confidence in the company’s performance and its plans for further growth.

“Last year, our tugs assisted more than 1,300 ship movements in Wellington Harbour, and this is growing. This new tug, which will be the same size as our newer tug Tiaki, will be able to increase our capacity, and will have positive flow-on benefits for our customers and the people of the region through more cargo freight and tourists on cruise ships.”

Tapuhi, following her build at the Damen shipyard in Changde, has just completed a lengthy series of tests on the Yangtze River, China and having passed those comfortably has now begun the journey to CentrePort Wellington.

ENDS

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