New ship to keep Chatham Islands supplied

October 8, 2025

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A brand-new ship will soon be built to serve the Chatham Islands, the New Zealand Government has announced.

The vessel, which will be 76 metres long, is set to replace the Southern Tiare, a ship that has carried supplies to and from the islands for nearly 40 years. Construction will be handled by two companies, McCallum Bros Ltd. and Nova Marine Carriers. The ship is expected to be ready for service by 2027.

The Chatham Islands rely heavily on ships to bring in food, fuel, and other important goods. They also use them to send fish, farm products, and other items back to mainland New Zealand. However, the current ship, the Southern Tiare, has become old and unreliable, sometimes breaking down and causing serious shortages.

There have even been times when petrol ran out, diesel nearly disappeared, and farmers could not move livestock, leading to large animal losses. This caused stress for the islanders, who depend on regular supply runs.

The new vessel will give the islanders peace of mind, as it is being designed to be stronger, more reliable, and large enough to handle future needs. It will be a vital link for the Chatham Islands’ economy.

Government officials say the new ship will not only keep supplies flowing but also ensure the islanders’ wellbeing. By the time it begins service in 2027, it should provide a safer connection to the mainland.

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