Maritime NZ said the Golden Mind got into steering difficulties west of Stewart Island on Wednesday, and the vessel and crew had remained there since then.

I think this shows that the government owning a vessel with offshore towing capability would be a huge benefit, not only to Wellington, but the entirety of NZ.

They’d be able to reach Nelson, Picton, or anywhere in the Strait within a few hours, and as this story shows, is able to respond to an event as far away as Stewart island.

Also, Timaru is quite a long tow.

  • Dave@lemmy.nzM
    2·
    2 days ago

    The article linked near the end says the government is looking at getting vessels but it wouldn’t be to own, but as a contract to the private sector.

    I wonder how much a tug like this would cost to buy and run?

    • Ilovethebomb@lemmy.nzOP
      2·
      2 days ago

      You’d think the landlord party would be more receptive to owning something outright.

      If it can also do the job of a regular tug, one would hope it would be a net income.