New ferry sails into Wellington

Toll Holding's new inter-island ferry Kaitaki will sail into Wellington tomorrow.

Toll spokeswoman Sue Foley said today that the new vessel was expected to berth at 10am.

It is expected to start its Cook Strait run on August 22.

Kaitaki, formerly the Stena Challenger, is 182m in length with a beam of 23.4m.

It is 30m longer and 3m wider than Arahura or Aratere and can carry up to 1660 passengers and 600 cars.

The latest addition to Interislander's fleet is due to berth at Waterloo Quay, just next to The Lynx terminal.

She will be greeted by a traditional Maori powhiri followed by a blessing of the new ship.

As she comes in, the Wellington tugs will spray her with water.

Meanwhile, Toll Shipping is still fighting Marlborough District Council over speed restrictions on its new ferry.

The company is appealing in the Environment Court against restrictions which do not allow new ships to travel at more than 15 knots in the Marlborough Sounds unless they comply with a wave height rule.

Mediation talks in Blenheim between the company, the council and other parties began early August.

Ms Foley said today mediation is continuing.

- NZPA