The Interislander ferry Aratere grounded just outside Picton, New Zealand, shortly after departing at 9:45 PM on June 21, due to a steering failure.
According to local news, there were 47 people onboard. Luckily, no injuries were reported, and the vessel remains watertight. The Picton Harbour Master is involved in efforts to relocate the ferry back to Picton. Photos on social media depict passengers in life jackets while the ferry remains stationary in Pine Bay.
Looks like the Interisland ferry Aratere has runaround shortly after leaving Picton this evening! Hope everyone on board is ok! Life jackets have been given out to passengers. pic.twitter.com/hb7yJ82i0F
— Brady Dyer (@BR4DY) June 21, 2024
New Zealand Transport Minister, Simeon Brown, stated that they had been advised that there was no danger to life, or risk of oil pollution to the marine environment. He also emphasized that both KiwiRail and Maritime NZ were actively addressing the situation.
