Berthing problems haunt new ferry

Berthing problems that have plagued the new Interislander ferry since its maiden voyage on Monday look set to continue as Toll and port operators bicker over who is to blame.

The Kaitaki again struck problems yesterday when its 8.45am sailing from Wellington turned into three hours of frustration for passengers. It finally sailed just after noon.

Problems continued last night when the sailing from Picton, set to arrive at 4pm, berthed four hours late.

Toll has said the ferry is using a temporary berth in Wellington which is not suited to the size of the ship.

The Kaitaki is 182m long - at least 30m longer and 3m wider than the Arahura and Aratere.