27/05/2026
Yesterday some of us got the huge privilege of seeing aboard our new hybrid electric ferry; made in Whanganui by Q West, and sporting a plethora of new and innovative technology. Our maritime expertise continues to lead the way, and this is a homegrown solution that is simply excellent.
I applaud the decision to have it done here.
The ferry is a hybrid - in that it has two large modern low-emission diesel V8 engines, that deliver energy to the batteries - all 134,400 of them- that power 4 massively powerful Hamilton Jet units (more kiwi brilliance). This creates thrust that will almost silently propel the ferry to 34 knots (just over 60kph) maximum hull speed. The diesels - one housed in each of the efficient catamaran hulls- are there as back up only, once the onshore charging system is complete at Queens Wharf. After that the ferries will be run exclusively electrically on the Harbour runs. Diesel gives the ferries much longer electrical journey capacity should they be needed for that. Each of these new ferries will save 790000 litres of diesel fuel every year.
The expected lifespan is 30 years, with eco benefits to harbour fauna. The only sound passengers hear on board is the noise of water over the hulls, and that means less noise pollution as well as vastly reduced diesel emissions and fuel costs. The technology aboard is world class with geo lock capability from the four engines so that the ferry can hold in place without anchoring.
The ‘engine rooms’ are spotless and will stay that way. Up top the ferry, named Waitemata 1, has state of the art tech, with Simrad and others supplying vessel data screens. Central and side helm stations allow for great accuracy in docking.
For passengers the viewing windows are much larger, the seating very comfortable, there’s room for 28 bicycles, and nearly 300 passengers.
The benefit to the city and shore, and to the health of the Waitemata is measurable. The ferry is vibration-less, very fast, astonishingly manouverable, comfortable, vastly cheaper to run, and because these deliveries are so good, maintenance is minimal and lifespan much improved. These ferries are a massive win for Auckland.
