Mayor Nadine Taylor says Marlborough is ready to work at pace with Government to support the requirements of new ferries announced recently by Minister for Rail Winston Peters.
Two new rail ferries will enter Cook Strait service in time for Christmas 2029. The new ferries will be approximately 200m in length and 28m wide. Each will have capacity for 1,500 passengers and 2.4km of lanes for cars, trucks and 40 rail wagons.
“It’s welcome news for us to finally understand the scope and nature of the new ferries planned for Cook Strait. It gives us greater certainty around what needs to be designed and delivered so we can have the conversations we need to with our community.”
“This decision gives Port Marlborough the certainty it needs to move forward with detailed design to further refine the new port infrastructure requirements and its associated costs. We look forward to continuing the work with Government, KiwiRail and NZTA to ensure all facets of the project deliver the best outcome for the country and Marlborough.”
Chief Executive of Port Marlborough Rhys Welbourn said the announcement was a significant step forward in progressing a solution for Cook Strait that serves the whole country.
“Now we have certainty over the type of ferries, we can progress with detailed design and commercial negotiations to ensure we have the right infrastructure that will meet the needs of New Zealand’s supply chain, deliver for our customers and community, and protect the unique environment that we operate in.”
