RoRo Operator in New Zealand Prosecuted for Blackout Caused by Maintenance Problem

New Zealand regulators have filed charges against the operator of a large inter-island ferry, following a power failure incident that occurred a year ago. The charges came after an extensive investigation by Maritime New Zealand and a critical report from the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC), which called on Maritime New Zealand to address critical safety issues. The TAIC found that the operator, KiwiRail, was not following maintenance protocols and had installed an 18-year-old rubber expansion joint on the ferry, which was beyond the manufacturer’s recommended age.

The incident occurred on January 28, 2023, as the ferry was approaching Wellington with 800 passengers and 80 crew on board. The vessel suffered a power failure, causing it to drift towards rocks before the crew was able to anchor it. The investigation into the incident took 12 months and involved reviewing the operator’s organizational information, conducting interviews, and examining the vessel. Maritime NZ Director, Kirstie Hewlett, stated that the decision to prosecute was made after a comprehensive review of the material.

The TAIC’s preliminary report found that the rubber expansion joint had ruptured, causing a loss of cooling water. The company faces a fine of up to approximately US$900,000 if found guilty. The incident has also sparked a debate over the need to replace the aging ferries, with union leaders and politicians arguing that the vessel is too old and needs to be replaced.

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