New Tug Kaiaua to increase towage capacity at Port Marlborough Port Marlborough New Zealand has signed a contract with Damen Shipyards for the construction of a new Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) Tug 2312, further strengthening the port’s towage capacity and marking the second brand new addition to the towage fleet in recent years. At almost 23 metres in length, the new tug will deliver a 70-tonne bollard pull and feature advanced manoeuvrability through its Twin Fin skeg and Azimuth thrusters. This compact but powerful tug has been selected to support Port Marlborough’s towage capabilities in Picton Harbour, which saw more than 3,100 vessel visits (500GT+) in the previous financial year. Port Marlborough enables the State Highway one connection for New Zealand, and facilitates Marlborough’s most important industries, including forestry export, wine, aquaculture, cruise tourism and recreational boating. The new tug will support these sectors by enhancing safety and efficiency during berthing and unberthing operations as required. The ASD Tug 2312 complements Port Marlborough’s existing ASD Tug 2111 KAIANA, purchased from Damen in 2023. Like Kaiana, the new tug includes several enhancements that exceed regulatory compliance, including: A 360° bridge to maximise visibility for the crew Single winch concept for both forward and aft operations Obstacle free working decks due to the single winch positioned in the deckhouse Patented Damen Twin Fin skeg for extra stability Beyond NZ compliant standards – upgraded IMO Tier III engines to reduce emissions by the installation of a Damen Emission Reduction System An innovative electric power generation system that uses power from the main engines, further reducing fuel use and emissions “We’re proud to be investing in the future capability of our port with a second modern tug,” said Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn. “Partnering again with Damen gives us access to world-class technology that improves the safety, performance and reliability of our towage services. This customer-led investment strengthens our ability to respond quickly, assist effectively, and support shipping partners making use of the deepest berth in New Zealand. The upgrade to IMO Tier III engines also reinforces our commitment to lowering emissions and operating responsibly.” Upon arrival the port will boast the nation’s newest towage fleet. The new tug will replace older vessels Monowai and Maungatea over time. Manawhenua iwi of Waitohi Picton, Te Ātiawa o te Waka a Maui Trust have named the new tug, KAIAUA – a name similar to the existing new Damen tug KAIANA. The pairing and coordination of the names was intentional and holds cultural significance for Te Ātiawa o te Waka a Maui. Both reference important mahinga kai and ecological sites within the rohe, and the relationship between them reflects a deeper narrative around place, connection, and kaitiakitanga which is something Te Ātiawa found fitting for sister vessels operating in local waters. Delivery to Marlborough is expected after sea trials in mid-2026. ## Ends ## About Port Marlborough Port Marlborough is the main maritime gateway for Te Tau Ihu, facilitating the SH1 inter-island link, and movement of South Island trade, providing critical logistics, marine, port, and marina services. Operating from Picton, Havelock, Waikawa and remote Marlborough Sounds Sites, Port Marlborough supports a diverse range of industries, including inter-island ferries, export cargo, tourism, cruise industry, aquaculture, forestry, and the marine sector. The port handles over 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually, oversees over 3,000 shipping movements annually, and operates one of the largest marina businesses in the Southern Hemisphere through its subsidiary Marlborough Sounds Marinas. Additionally, the port manages pilotage, towage, berthing logistics for shipping throughout the Marlborough Sounds and delivers success to the region through its balanced strategy driving success for Marlborough. The port is committed to delivering value to Marlborough’s industries while prioritising the Health and Safety of its personnel, environmental sustainability and long-term economic growth. For more information see: https://www.portmarlborough.co.nz/ For Media Enquiries contact Connie Smith | GM Communications, Port Marlborough NZ Ltd, 027 404 6135 connie.smith@pmnz.co.nz
