Stricken ferry still stuck while divers investigate

Plans to refloat the stricken Aratere ferry this morning having been called off while further investigations take place.

The grounded Aratere will not be refloated until divers investigate further, it has been revealed this morning.

More information is needed about the grounding pressure and vessel design before action is taken.

People on board, including eight passengers, are not in any danger says Harbourmaster Jake Oliver.

And oil booms are being made ready as a precaution while options to rescue those non-essential passengers on board are considered.

“The crew and eight passengers are safe on board and there are no evident environmental risks while the vessel is grounded,” says the Harbourmaster.”

Marlborough Mayor Nadine Taylor is at the scene this morning following the maritime emergency last night when the Interislander ferry grounded at Pine Bay near Picton.

She says original plans to try and refloat the stranded vessel on this morning’s tide have been called off for now.

“The Harbourmaster and Port Marlborough are working hard to resolve the situation.

We want to take some observations of the vessel going through this hightide, and putting some divers in the water to have a very good look at it in the daylight.

“Divers went in the water through the night to have a look but they want to have another scan through the daylight just to observe where the hull is sitting and settled.”

I think it’s a very prudent response. The vessel is secure where it is, there is no need to rush to move the Aratere off.

“The important thing is that when they do attempt to refloat it is done with the most information that they can have on hand - and that will mean it is done as safely as possible.”

A spokesperson from Port Marlborough confirmed there were no injuries among those on board and the vessel is watertight.

“We understand from KiwiRail that there are no injuries, the vessel is watertight, and there are no environmental issues.”

“We have mobilised our marine and pilotage teams, and the two Port Marlborough tugs which are on the water, on standby to assist as required.”

Port Marlborough is working closely with the Harbourmaster, ferry crew and relevant authorities to provide all necessary support and resources.

There is yet to be any confirmation about the cause of the incident.

Mayor Taylor says she is grateful to all those working to free the Aratere.

“My sympathies to the crew, passengers and their families and thank you to all the agencies who are currently focused and working hard on achieving the best outcome for this situation.”