Port Marlborough and StraitNZ Bluebridge secure Picton-Wellington ferry service until 2064

Port Marlborough on New Zealand’s South Island and ferry operator StraitNZ Bluebridge have signed a long-term agreement to continue ferry services between Picton and Wellington across Cook Strait until 2064.

The agreement secures Picton as StraitNZ Bluebridge’s long-term South Island base and commits both parties to supporting passenger and freight operations on the 92.5-kilometre route.

“It has been great to work alongside StraitNZ, who have a clear vision for their operations and see Port Marlborough as a long-term strategic partner in their supply chain solutions for freight and passengers across Aotearoa,” said Rhys Welbourn, chief executive at Port Marlborough. “The agreement allows us to focus on delivering for our customers while planning with confidence for the decades ahead.”

Shane McMahon, chief executive of transport firm StraitNZ, welcomed the agreement as an important step in supporting long-term operations and growth. “The extension of this agreement with our valued partners at Port Marlborough demonstrates StraitNZ Bluebridge’s ongoing commitment to the critical Cook Strait link in Picton and we are excited by the opportunities ahead,” he said.