Port Otago and Napier Port have reached a major milestone in their joint dredging programme with the launch of a new Damen TSHD 1000 in Vietnam. The trailing suction hopper dredger was launched at Damen partner 189 Shipyard and is scheduled for delivery later this year. Once operational, it will provide dedicated harbour maintenance capacity for the two New Zealand ports. New dredger to serve both ports At almost 60 metres long, the vessel is based on Damen’s TSHD 1000 design but has been customised for the requirements of Port Otago and Napier Port. The dredger is equipped with modern monitoring systems, azimuth thrusters and a bow thruster, providing the manoeuvrability required for operations within harbour areas. It will be used to maintain approaches and waterways, helping ensure continued safe access for vessels. Dredged material can be discharged through bottom doors in the hopper, while the accommodation is positioned aft and separated from the vessel’s main operational areas. Ports secure dedicated dredging capacity Napier Port, located on New Zealand’s North Island, and Port Otago on the South Island will operate the vessel jointly. Through their joint venture, the ports will have long-term access to dedicated dredging capacity and will be able to plan maintenance campaigns without relying entirely on third-party contractors. The new vessel will eventually replace the 40-year-old TSHD New Era , which currently carries out dredging operations in the region. “We are honoured to support both Port Otago and Napier Port with this important investment in their long-term dredging capabilities,” said Rabien Bahadoer, Regional Sales Director Asia Pacific at Damen. Following its launch, the new dredger has entered the final outfitting, testing and commissioning phase alongside the quay. The post Port Otago and Napier Port launch new dredger for harbour maintenance appeared first on Container News .