The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) has voiced strong concerns regarding the Government’s decision to terminate the contract for the country’s only dedicated ocean-going emergency tow vessel, the MMA Vision. National Secretary Carl Findlay warns that this move could jeopardize lives, the maritime environment, and national energy security. Transport Minister Chris Bishop’s recent comments suggesting that new Cook Strait ferries, expected by 2029, might eliminate the need for a permanent emergency towing capability have raised alarms within the union.
Findlay highlighted that government funding for the MMA Vision has been cut, with the contract now set to conclude on February 4, 2026, which is earlier than the previously announced end date of June 2026. He emphasized the urgent need for clarity regarding the Government’s plans, stating that the removal of the MMA Vision would create a significant gap in New Zealand’s maritime safety infrastructure. This emergency response vessel was commissioned due to concerns about the aging Cook Strait ferry fleet and the long wait for replacements.
The MMA Vision has demonstrated its effectiveness in recent months, successfully towing distressed vessels like the oil tanker Golden Mind and assisting with the grounding of the Manahau. Findlay argues that without the MMA Vision, the outcomes of these incidents could have been dire. Additionally, he stresses the importance of the vessel for maintaining high-skilled maritime jobs, which are essential for New Zealand’s future in emerging industries like offshore wind.
MUNZ is calling on the Government to ensure continued funding, confirm the ongoing contract for the MMA Vision, and commit to a long-term solution for emergency towing capabilities.
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