More mechanical problems for ferry

The Cook Strait ferry Aratere has suffered more mechanical problems.

Engineers had to shut down one of the vessel's four engines while it was in Tory Channel last night.

The engine was being brought back online following routine maintenance when air got into the cooling system.

It was closed down and the ferry continued its voyage with three engines.

Interisland line spokesman Martin Weekes says there were no safety issues involved and the ship never came to a stop as a result of the problem.

However, at the end of the crossing, the Aratere's main passenger door failed to open when the ferry arrived in Wellington. Passengers were bused off via the vehicle deck.

The vessel has been the subject of a series of investigations and safety audits since starting on the Cook Strait run in 1999.

- NEWSTALK ZB