Chatham Islands service

The New Zealand Ministry of Transport (MOT) has signed a contract with 44 South Shipping Limited Partnership to build a new vessel in China that will serve the Chatham Islands for at least 20 years, replacing the aging Southern Tiare. 44 South Shipping Limited Partnership is a joint venture of McCallum Bros Ltd and Nova Marine Carriers of Switzerland. The ship will be jointly funded by the Ministry of Transport and the Partnership.

The ship is expected to be completed and operational by late 2027, ensuring continuity of service before the Southern Tiare retires in March 2028. The contract with the Ministry of Transport to operate the vessel for a period of 20 years will ensure that there will be a reliable and consistent service to the Chatham Islands, with the multipurpose vessel being built to accommodate the transport of livestock from the island. 

Dawson and Associates have provided advice to the partnership throughout the negotiations with the MOT on the build contract for the new vessel and the funding and services agreement for the Chatham Islands and are privileged to be part of this project.