Interisland ferry in dry-dock in Auckland

Tranz Rail is fixing one of its Cook Strait ferries in an Auckland dry-dock after engine trouble caused a string of late sailings.

The Aratere Interislander steamed into Auckland early yesterday and was quickly bundled into a dry-dock at the Devonport naval base. The ferry has struggled to keep up with its six daily sailings since December 14, when it blew a piston in one of its four engines. It has also had problems with bearings in one of the engines.

The engine will be replaced under warranty from Finnish manufacturers Wartsila.

Interisland Services technical manager John Williams said workers will cut a hole in the two year old ferry's rail deck so that the faulty engine can be pulled out.

Mr Williams said Tranz Rail was using the opportunity to service the vessel five months ahead of schedule. Workers would apply anti-foul to the hull, bar staff would be given more space, coolers would be overhauled and other changes made to accommodation.