Interislander ferry Kaiarahi turns back to Wellington after issue

An Interislander ferry bound for Picton this afternoon has turned back to Wellington after apparent technical troubles. Photo / marinetraffic.com

An Interislander ferry was forced to turn back to Wellington after abandoning its trip across the Cook Strait due to technical troubles.

Wellington Harbour master Grant Nalder told NZME an Interislander ferry bound for Picton this afternoon turned back to Wellington after “apparent technical troubles”.

One passenger on the 3.30 pm Kaiārahi sailing said they were told there was a steering issue that didn’t impact the control of the vessel.

Nalder said the Kaiārahi left Wellington at 3.30pm, but began experiencing issues before it entered the Tory Channel.

He said they went into the Cook Strait to investigate the issues, before deciding to return back to Wellington.

Nalder confirmed there was no risk to anyone on board, and things are going smoothly as they return now.

Interislander executive general manager Duncan Roy said the vessel is returning to Wellington so the technical issue could be investigated and resolved by technical staff based there.

“The issue became apparent as part of standard procedures prior to entering Tory Channel, and the return to Wellington was decided on as a safety precaution rather than sailing through the Sounds.

“The appropriate authorities have been notified, and we will work with our passengers and freight customers to reschedule them,” Roy said.

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