16 Jul 2014

Aratere cancelled for being too slow

10:03 pm on 16 July 2014

KiwiRail says it is ensuring customers using the Interislander ferry service will not be affected by the latest trouble with the newly-returned Aratere.

A return sailing by the ferry was cancelled on Wednesday - just one day after went back into full service - because it is too slow.

The ferry had been in a dry-dock in Singapore for repairs after losing a propellor in November last year.

The Aratere did three return trips between Wellington and Picton before it was withdrawn.

A KiwiRail spokesperson said it isn't clear why it is taking 15 minutes longer per sailing across Cook Strait. Timetables will be changed but all customers will be accommodated, he said.

The Aratere

The Aratere. Photo: RNZ