News

31 March 2025 

Media Release  

CentrePort welcomes announcement on ferries 

CentrePort Chief Executive Anthony Delaney has welcomed today’s (31 March) announcement from the Minister for Rail Winston Peters about the pathway forward in securing new ferries for a safe, reliable and affordable Cook Strait ferry operation. 

Mr Delaney says based on the information that has been provided, there is some further certainty about the next steps and the timelines from here. 

“We appreciate the Minister giving clear direction for something that’s important to New Zealand’s freight and supply chain. It addresses a lot of third-party rumour and supposition about what might happen, some of which, has not been helpful nor constructive, for us or Our Customers” he says. 

Mr Delaney also acknowledged the announcement give scope for future port needs. 

“As the Rt Hon Winston Peters says today ‘the door to the ports’ aspirations remains open’. That ensures our long-term options remain firmly on the table.” 

Mr Delaney says CentrePort is looking forward to working with Ferry Holdings Limited to ensure the necessary and affordable landside infrastructure is in place to support the operation of the Interislander ferry service. 

While the announcement provides certainty for KiwiRail, Interislander and the ports involved, it also provides clarity of what it means for a much larger audience. 

“This news gives certainty to our customers, to Wellingtonians and the New Zealand public of what’s to come. It also gives some surety to all the people who rely on the provision of a safe, reliable and affordable ferry service for travel and trade across the Cook Strait.” 

Mr Delaney says CentrePort has the people who can work with Ferry Holdings Limited going forward to deliver the required infrastructure to support the new vessels. 

ENDS 

For queries, please contact: 

Andree Kai Fong 

Communications and Engagement Manager 

Email: andree.kaifong@centreport.co.nz