Crowds of people have welcomed Bluebridge’s newest ferry, Livia, into Wellington’s Oriental Bay this morning.
Livia would be a sister ship to the current Connemara vessel, and would replace the Strait Feronia later this year.
The boat arrived in the capital this morning following its six-week journey from Denmark, and would provide a 10% increase to vehicle and passenger capacity.
StraitNZ chief executive Shane McMahon said he was “very excited” about what the new vessel was capable of.
“I think it will be a great asset for not just the Cook Strait, but also New Zealand.”
He said the replacement had been in the works since before Christmas, and he was “thrilled” to secure a vessel of this quality.
We’re all about safe, reliable transport and the important thing is we’re investing in capacity.”
McMahon said the vessels were sisters so it meant the same machinery was onboard each boat, and would make for easier maintenance.
StraitNZ chief executive Shane McMahon said he was “very excited” about what the new vessel was capable of. (Source: 1News)
Mark Oldershaw, chief executive at WellingtonNZ said he was “excited to welcome Bluebridge’s Livia to wellington’s ferry fleet”.
He said it was a “a vital addition that will strengthen our transport network and help ensure resilience for the country’s most important ferry route.
“Livia will play an essential role in keeping Wellington’s communities, businesses and visitors connected across the Cook Strait.”
