Port Marlborough New Zealand welcomed its new Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) Tug 2312, Kaiaua, into Picton today, marking a new addition to the port’s marine fleet and completing what will be the newest marine fleet of any commercial port in New Zealand. The arrival of Kaiaua will provide further operational support to Port Marlborough’s marine capability and resilience, supporting the safe and efficient movement of vessels in Picton Harbour and across the Marlborough Sounds. At 23 metres in length, Kaiaua delivers a 72-tonne bollard pull and advanced manoeuvrability through its Twin Fin skeg and azimuth thrusters – patented by ship builders Damen. Compact but powerful, the tug has been purpose-built to support Port Marlborough’s towage requirements in Picton Harbour, which recorded more than 3,000 commercial vessel visits (500GT+) over the 2025 financial year. Port Marlborough continues to invest in modern marine capability to ensure the port can operate safely and efficiently now and into the future. The port currently operates three tugs and a pilot vessel, supported by a professional marine team comprising maritime pilots, experienced tug and launch masters, crew and cadets, along with the infrastructure required to sustain safe and efficient operations. The $15m investment in Kaiaua provides additional capability, safety, resilience and responsiveness for the port’s commercial customers and community across the marine service. Port Marlborough facilitates New Zealand’s State Highway 1 connection and supports Marlborough’s key industries, including forestry exports, wine, aquaculture, cruise tourism and recreational boating. Reliable marine and pilotage services are central to maintaining supply chains and ensuring vessels can berth and depart safely in all operating conditions. Kaiaua complements Port Marlborough’s existing ASD Tug 2111 Kaiana, delivered in 2024, and with the arrival of Kaiaua, they form the newest towage fleet in the country and position the port to meet growing and evolving operational demands. Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn said the arrival represents an important milestone for the port’s long-term marine capability. “We’re proud to welcome Kaiaua into the port today. Together with Kaiana, it gives Port Marlborough the most modern towage fleet in New Zealand. Picton is a busy working harbour, with more than 3,000 large vessel visits each year and facilitating the SH1 link in New Zealand’s national supply chain. Having a modern and responsive marine fleet is essential to keeping New Zealand’s freight, tourism and industries moving safely. This investment provides assurance for our customers and community, and ensures our marine team has the best tools to do their job safely and effectively.Working again with Damen has also allowed us to introduce world class towage technology that improves performance while reducing emissions through MARPOL Tier III compliant engines.” Kaiaua will progressively replace the older vessel Monowai as the fleet transition to modern and robust capability continues. Manawhenua iwi of Waitohi Picton, Te Ātiawa o te Waka a Māui Trust, have named the new tug Kaiaua. The name intentionally pairs with Kaiana and holds cultural significance, referencing important mahinga kai and ecological sites within Waitohi Picton harbour. The relationship between the names reflects connection, place and kaitiakitanga (protecting the future), values that align strongly with those of the port and role of these sister vessels operating in local waters. # ENDS
