The stricken container ship - Shiling - could soon become a fixture in Wellington Harbour if its repair proves problematic.
The Shiling remains anchored in Golden Bay after losing power when departing the capital late last week and issuing a mayday call.
The vessel's Singaporean owners are working with insurers and port operator CentrePort to secure a deal that would mean Wellington legally becomes a "port of refuge".
Maritime lawyer Peter Dawson says the 300m ship's stay could then be a long and disruptive one.
He spoke with Ingird Hipkiss.
