39676 (2026). Tangi Utikere to the Minister for Rail

Written Question

Published date: 21 Sep 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	39676 (2026)
Question asked:	07 Sep 2026
Member asking:	Tangi Utikere
Portfolio:	Minister for Rail
Minister replying:	Rt Hon Winston Peters
Answer received:	15 Sep 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_39676_2026
Document guid:	45153b91-c252-4d2b-8833-60041fcb3907

39676 (2026). Tangi Utikere to the Minister for Rail: What was the total cost of demolishing the Aratere's wharf in Picton, and what proceeds, if any, were received from the disposal of the Aratere itself?

Rt Hon Winston Peters: The demolition of the wharf is in the low millions. The exact figure is not able to be disclosed at this time. The Aratere was disposed of through a commercial agreement between KiwiRail and the scrapyard which saw the vessel purchased by the scrapyard following all saleable items being sold prior. As for the specific value, KiwiRail has a right to go about its commercial activities without prejudice or disadvantage.