Mayor commends multi agency response to Aratere grounding
The ferry Aratere aground near Bob’s Bay in Picton Harbour Credit: Skyworks UAS
Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor has thanked those involved in the multi-agency response to the grounding of the Aratere in Picton Harbour on Friday night.
“Thank you to Harbourmaster Captain Jake Oliver and the Nautical and Coastal team, Port Marlborough’s marine team including the pilots and tug operators, our emergency response teams - Marlborough Civil Defence and Emergency Management, FENZ, Police, St John - Maritime New Zealand, KiwiRail, Coastguard and Council's environmental management team. Well done to you all,” Mayor Taylor said.
“The speed of the response on site was to be commended and many stayed throughout the night to help. Council has particularly appreciated the close working relationship with Port Marlborough as part of the response effort and the use of the two tugs that proved they really could – the Maungatea and Monowai.”
“This response was a team effort of professional and capable mariners and emergency responders who achieved a wonderful outcome. I'd like to thank every single person involved - you are a credit to Picton, Marlborough and New Zealand,” she said.
