New Pilot Vessel a Key Part of CentrePort’s Growth Strategy

New Pilot Vessel a Key Part of CentrePort’s Growth Strategy

From August 2017, CentrePort’s Marine Team will have a new jet powered pilot vessel capable of speeds up to 31 knots.

CentrePort’s Chief Executive, Derek Nind, says “there is clear need for a vessel that offers increased operational capability in all conditions.”

CentrePort have selected Q-West Boat Builders of Whanganui to build the vessel to a Camarc (UK) design. Camarc have designed about 100 pilot vessels which are in operation in ports all around the world.

Q-West also built CentrePort’s existing pilot vessel, along with the Wellington-based Maritime Police vessel ‘Lady Elizabeth IV’.

“Q-West are a well-respected central New Zealand company with an excellent pedigree in boat building and a professional and highly motivated local staff,” says Derek Nind.

In 2015 CentrePort, with its customers and service providers, contributed $2.5 billion to NZ’s GDP, 39% higher than in 2009. This contribution is increasing each year. Since 2009 CentrePort’s cargo volume has increased by 25 percent.

CentrePort is important to the Central New Zealand Region, in supporting economic activity and employment.

This new vessel is part of an investment strategy designed to support and foster CentrePort’s growth. CentrePort aims to be the port of choice for central New Zealand, an area that supports 26% of New Zealand’s jobs, and 26.3% of New Zealand’s GDP.

“With superior manoeuvrability in mind we decided the new vessel should be jet powered. Its increased size will enable Pilots to embark and disembark ships further out in the Cook Strait,” says Derek Nind.

General Manager of Q-West, Colin Mitchell, says “Q-West are delighted to have been selected for the build and manufacture of this vessel. It will strengthen Q-West and CentrePort’s successful, long standing relationship and both companies’ commitment to the Whanganui Region.”

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