March 27, 2025
Rail Minister Unveils Plan for New Zealand’s New Inter-Island Ferries Amid Cost Concerns
Rail Minister Winston Peters will soon announce his plan for New Zealand’s inter-island ferries.
The government is seeking companies to build two rail-enabled ferries for Cook Strait, set to be ready by 2029. Despite cancelling the $4 billion iRex project, Hyundai, the former contender, is a possible builder for new ships.
“On Monday afternoon, I’ll be announcing the outcome of the KiwiRail and the Cook Strait’s ferries and where we’re going to so we’re making progress,” says Peters.
Labour spokesperson Tangi Utikere doubts the plan will save money, saying ferry travel will become even more expensive.
He says, “The Government is at sea on ferries, and it’s only going to hurt our pockets.”





