Reviews & Ratings for the Kaitaki

In a concerning incident on December 27, 2023, several automobiles aboard the ferry 'Kaitaki' were damaged during its morning journey from Wellington to Picton, which began at 8:45 a.m. The vessel encountered severe rolling as it navigated near the Karori lighthouse, causing some passenger vehicles to shift and sustain damage. Fortunately, only one passenger reported a minor injury, for which the crew promptly provided medical assistance. After the ferry's arrival in Picton, a thorough assessment was conducted to evaluate the situation. For further details, you can view the report with accompanying photographs here: https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/vehicles-damaged-one-injured-on-rolling-interislander-ferry-sailing/D2M6E447VZDQXCLMTLT6OYD3LY/

KiwiRail has received a hefty fine of $412,500 after the ferry 'Kaitaki' experienced a loss of propulsion while navigating toward Wellington Harbour on January 28, 2023. The ferry, carrying approximately 800 passengers, found itself adrift in treacherous conditions as it drifted south of Wellington. During the incident, the passengers were swiftly mustered and provided with lifejackets while the vessel struggled to regain power, ultimately making a safe return to port in Wellington. The safety challenges were exacerbated by powerful southerly winds, with gusts reaching up to 45 knots and three-meter swells at the harbour's entrance. Had the ferry's anchors failed during this critical moment, it risked grounding at Sinclair Head. The cause of the propulsion failure was traced back to a malfunctioning rubber expansion joint, which led to the shutdown of the Kaitaki's main engine, rendering the ferry adrift in dangerous waters. Maritime NZ has expressed commendation for KiwiRail's decision to plead guilty, highlighting the significant oversights that resulted in the vessel losing power. A spokesperson stated, "There were significant failings that caused the ferry to lose power. Poorly managed maintenance and processes on the Kaitaki meant its passengers, crew, and the environment were put at risk. This incident demonstrated the serious consequences of poor maintenance and emphasised the need for operators to ensure their vessels are well-maintained and properly managed." In addition to the fine, KiwiRail was also ordered to cover $20,000 in costs related to the case.

The 'Kaitaki' ferry has been navigating without one of its two critical stabiliser fins for over 18 months, leading to the cancellation of sailings on the night of July 1, 2024. KiwiRail reported that all ferry operations between Wellington and Picton have been suspended until the morning of July 4, attributed to persistent heavy swells and adverse weather conditions. The service interruptions specifically involved the 'Kaitaki,' as the 'Kaiarahi' is currently in wet docking in Picton for a month-long maintenance overhaul, while the 'Aratere' remains out of service due to steering failure and grounding, which occurred outside Picton on June 21. KiwiRail's fleet of three ferries is designed to operate in rough seas, with stabilisers that enhance passenger comfort during rough transit. However, Interislander Executive General Manager, Duncan Roy, confirmed that the missing stabiliser fin on the 'Kaitaki' was first identified during its last dry docking in Sydney in September 2022. Due to constraints, the replacement and installation of a new stabiliser could not be completed at that time and has since been incorporated into the vessel’s long-term maintenance program. Although stabilisers do not impact vessel safety, they play a vital role in minimizing the vessel's movements for the comfort of both passengers and livestock, and the absence of one has not significantly affected the operational performance of the 'Kaitaki.'