Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) is investigating why the Interislander ferry, 'Arahura' commenced sailing from Wellington to Picton on a holiday weekend overloaded with passengers.
Permitted to carry 350 passengers when it has four train lines of rail freight onboard and 550 passengers with two train lines of rail freight, the ferry reportedly departed Wellington on the evening of Friday, October 24, with 440 people and four lines of rail freight.
However, once the captain became aware of the overloading, the 'Arahura' performed a U-turn in the harbour and returned to the ferry terminal where two lines of rail freight were removed before the trip was resumed.
The incident is understood to have stemmed from the 'Kakariki' having to cancel sailings and therefore transfer passengers while repairs were carried out on its bow door.
A locking pin reportedly became caught and caused damage as the door was being opened following its arrival in Wellington during the afternoon. Drivers of cars and trucks onboard the 'Kakariki' were reportedly stuck on the ferry for up to two hours.
Meanwhile, Interislander general manager Thomas Davis recently announced his departure from the firm with Ross Allen subsequently appointed Interislander operations acting general manager.
The move follows a management restructure launched by parent company, KiwiRail, in which it is understood Mr Davis' existing position was disestablished. Mr Davis, who has had two spells at the helm of the Interislander, reportedly said the restructure presented a timely opportunity to move on from the firm.
Iain MacIntyre
Image Source: Tony Wills/Wikimedia
