Real Journeys general manager of engineering, Brian Humphrey, said it was something of a logistical nightmare.
"It's a bit like carting a whale out of water; the forces are against you. I think it's probably the largest thing to move on these roads since the power station days."
The transporter has had to import a trailer to carry it.
"One of its more unusual features is its double-glazing to regulate the temperature efficiently, make it quieter [less engine noise], and help prevent windows fogging up, a problem sometimes caused by the unique Fiordland weather," he said.
The hull of the aluminium boat has been painted with Intersleek to help streamline it in the water to save emissions, he said.
"It has LED lighting throughout to make it more energy-efficient and recycling facilities on board. Energy-efficient hand sweepers have been installed for drying hands instead of paper towels and crockery instead of paper cups."
The MV Titiroa will be the largest vessel on the lake and can carry up to 138 passengers.
The wharves at both ends of Lake Manapouri have also being upgraded and extended to cater for the MV Titiroa, which is due to start operations in January 2012.
Once passengers have crossed Lake Manapouri they'll board one of two new Volvo coaches to take them across Wilmot Pass to Doubtful Sound.
On arrival at the fiord, passengers embark for their three-hour day cruise on another multi-million dollar purpose-built vessel, Patea Explorer, which was launched five years ago.
MV Titiroa, vital statistics
Weight: 55 tonnes
Length: 24m
Width: 7.5m
Passengers: 138
Cost: $24 million
