17 July 2026 MEDIA RELEASE Port Marlborough welcomes final Government approval for Cook Strait Ferry Replacement Programme Port Marlborough welcomes the Government’s approval of the Cook Strait Ferry Replacement Programme, providing certainty for the Waitohi Ferry Redevelopment Project as construction activity continues in Waitohi Picton. Port Marlborough Chief Executive Rhys Welbourn said the announcement provides confidence to continue delivering infrastructure that will support New Zealand’s State Highway 1 link and wider transport network for future generations. “The announcement today provides certainty that allows everyone involved to maintain momentum and continue delivering this nationally significant project. “Over the past several years we’ve been preparing for this point. We’ve secured funding, completed the commercial arrangements, appointed our delivery partners, including HEB Construction as our Main Contractor, and invested in the capability needed to deliver the project successfully. Our focus is now firmly on delivery.” Mr Welbourn said delivering a project of this scale while maintaining day to day port and ferry operations required careful planning and close collaboration. “This is one of the largest infrastructure projects ever undertaken in Marlborough, and it will be delivered within a busy operational port that continues to support ferry services, commercial shipping, cruise, marina customers and the wider community every day. “That brings complexity, but it’s something we’ve been planning for. Safety, careful staging of works and strong collaboration with our project partners will be critical to ensuring we maintain operations while building the infrastructure New Zealand needs.” Port Marlborough remains committed to keeping the community informed throughout construction. “We know people want to understand what’s happening, when it’s happening and what it means for them. We will continue providing regular updates and working closely with port users, community, iwi, customers and stakeholders as the project progresses. “We’re committed to being a good neighbour throughout delivery. Open communication and meaningful engagement will remain an important part of how we work.” Environmental stewardship remains a key focus throughout the project. “Waitohi Picton sits within an environment of outstanding natural and cultural significance in the Marlborough Sounds, and we take our responsibility to this seriously. Protecting that environment is fundamental to how we work and will deliver this project. Environmental management, monitoring and working alongside our partners guides every stage of construction.” Mr Welbourn said Port Marlborough has made significant investments to ensure the organisation is well placed to deliver the Waitohi Ferry Redevelopment Project. “Delivering a project of this scale requires the right people, capability and infrastructure. Over recent years we’ve invested in a skilled delivery team, welcomed New Zealand’s newest towage fleet to support safe and efficient harbour operations, and continued building the capability needed to deliver this nationally significant project. Those investments put us in a strong position to deliver the infrastructure our community and New Zealand need.” The Waitohi Ferry Redevelopment Project will deliver the marine and landside infrastructure required to support the Government’s new rail-enabled ferries while maintaining all port operations throughout construction. https://portmarlborough.co.nz/waitohi-ferry-redevelopment-project/ Ends For Media Enquiries contact Connie Smith | GM Communications, Port Marlborough NZ Ltd, 027 404 6135 [email protected]
