New Zealand: Cook Strait ferry operator Strait Shipping is due to return to the Wellington District Court this month to answer health and safety charges relating to a collision involving its vessel ‘Santa Regina’ last year.

It is understood a Strait Shipping employee is to also face charges brought under Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) regulations. The Santa Regina incurred a five-metre gash on the starboard side of its stern when it collided with the berthed fishing boat ‘Southern Protector’ on April 26, 2011, in CentrePort Wellington. The fishing boat was also understood to have suffered damage to its hull and deck railings required assessment by an engineer.

At the time Strait Shipping spokesperson Wendy Pannett explained the ferry had “glanced” the fishing boat when affected by high winds while attempting to berth at Glasgow Wharf. Two Cook Strait crossings had to be cancelled the following day while the ‘Santa Regina’ underwent repair work, causing disruption to about 120 passengers and dozens of cars, before normal service resumed.

Iain MacIntyre