5 May 2023

KiwiRail discusses TAIC findings on Kaitaki engine failure

From Midday Report, 12:15 pm on 5 May 2023

An investigation into the Interislander ferry which lost power and drifted along the Cook Strait has sent an industry-wide warning to vessel operators.

The Kaitaki was unable to restart its engines when they failed in January, because one of the ship's safety-critical rubber expansion joints had ruptured.

That joint had been manufactured in 2005 and installed in 2018 - but the Transport Accident Investigation Commission says the joints should be no older than eight months when installed, and replaced every five years.

Interislander ferry cruising through Queen Charlotte sound on 8 February 2020.

Photo: 123RF

Kiwirail's Chief Executive, Peter Reidy, spoke to Charlotte Cook.