Six Shipyards Shortlisted for Cook Strait Ferry Project

May 9, 2025

Six shipbuilders have been shortlisted to deliver the highly anticipated new Cook Strait ferries. The process is being led by Ferry Holdings Limited, a government-established entity tasked with managing contractual negotiations with shipyards and port stakeholders.

Chair Chris Mackenzie confirmed that the company’s management team has invited the selected yards to submit formal bids, with contracts expected to be awarded later this year.

In addition, Ferry Holdings has appointed key advisors to support the procurement process. Naval architecture firm Knud E. Hansen will oversee technical design, while OSK Design will handle the vessel interiors. Legal counsel will be provided by maritime law specialists Holman Fenwick Willan, and BRS Shipbrokers will act as the appointed shipbroker.