KNUD E. HANSEN is working closely with Ferry Holdings Ltd on the renewal and strengthening of ferry services between New Zealand’s North and South islands.

Two new, state-of-the-art RoPAX vessels are now under way and will be deployed on the demanding Cook Strait route. The strait is known for strong and rapidly changing currents, harsh weather conditions, high waves and sudden weather shifts. The vessels will also operate through the environmentally sensitive waters of Tory Channel and Queen Charlotte Sound, which are characterised by narrow, sheltered, fjord-like waterways with limited water exchange. These conditions make the areas particularly vulnerable to pollution, noise and emissions, while also being home to rich marine life, including dolphins, seals and whales, as well as fragile coastal ecosystems.

The Danish naval engineering consultancy has contributed technical expertise from the earliest phases of the project and continues as a close technical partner throughout design development, the construction phase and up to delivery.

Managing Director Javier Suarez looks forward to continuing the collaboration:

“We are very pleased to support Ferry Holdings in bringing these transformative vessels to life. This fleet renewal represents a major investment in the future of Cook Strait transport, and we are fully committed to delivering vessels that meet the highest standards of safety, reliability and performance,” says Javier Suarez.

The Danish contribution extends beyond naval architecture and engineering. OSK Design is also part of the project as interior designer, focusing on passenger-oriented solutions that reflect the identity of the routes, enhance comfort and flow on board, and support safe and efficient daily operations.

The new RoPAX vessels will strengthen New Zealand’s transport infrastructure and set new benchmarks for safety, efficiency and environmental performance on one of the world’s most challenging ferry routes.