NZ Interislander Ferry to Dry-dock in Devonport

NewZealand's KiwiRail says that the Interislander ferry Arahura has left Wellington for her scheduled bi-annual dry-docking in Devonport, having last visited Auckland in July 2012.

Docking is being undertaken at the Devonport Dockyard under the management of Babcock’s New Zealand.  The principal work relates to the vessel’s regulatory compliance regime, which requires machinery and propulsion equipment to be inspected and if necessary, repaired.

Work to be carried out while the vessel is in dry dock  includes tail shaft removal, an overhaul of the propeller hub, and crack testing of all propeller blades and securing bolts.

Arahura’s rail deck will undergo routine track maintenance which will be completed by the KiwiRail track maintenance team.

The ship’s bow thrusters will be overhauled with the support of Rolls Royce, who are providing trained technicians for this work.

Arahura will then undergo a sea trial in the Hauraki Gulf in order to proof-test machinery and systems, as well as allowing calibration of thrusters and associated equipment.  She will then return to Wellington to resume scheduled sailings in late September.

“Arahura has been a great performer for us over the years, recently celebrating her 50,000th crossing of Cook Strait.  Having this work done now allows her to return to service ahead of the beginning of the busy dairy season, the pre-Christmas freight movements, and of course our summer passenger peaks,” said Interislander General Manager Thomas Davis.

“Being down to two ships does present challenges in how we move freight and people, but with Aratere performing well and Kaitaki returning from her scheduled survey and maintenance week in Nelson on Sunday, we’re confident we can meet customer

The hull and superstructure will be thoroughly washed, prior to painting.