10 Jul 2014

Ferry on test run across Strait

9:27 pm on 10 July 2014

The interisland ferry Aratere is crossing Cook Strait for the first time since breaking down last year.

A propeller fell off the ship during a crossing from Wellington to Picton and it had to be repaired in Singapore.

The ferry left Wellington at 5pm on Thursday on a test trip to Picton and back.

Later this week, the Aratere is scheduled to begin freight-only sailings on a reduced timetable; it will start carrying passengers on 14 July.