Port signs on for second new tugboat

Port Marlborough will be taking possession of a second Damen Shipyards tug, the Kaiaua, after trials in mid-2026. The purchase will make the Port Marlborough towage fleet the country’s newest upon Kaiaua’s arrival, joining fellow Damen tug Kaiana which was delivered in 2023.

Kaiaua includes a 360° bridge to maximise visibility for the crew, high freeboard to minimise water on deck and an innovative electric power generation system that uses power from the main engines, further reducing fuel use and emissions.

In a press release, Port Marlborough said the new tug enables a more efficient State Highway One connection and will support the region’s most important industries with safer, more efficient berthing and unberthing operations.

“We’re proud to be investing in the future capability of our port with a second modern tug,” said Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn.