Inter-island Ferry Aratere Runs Aground Near Picton, Tugboats Plan Rescue Operation The Interislander ferry Aratere, carrying 200 passengers and 50 crew members, has run aground near Picton after losing power. The incident occurred around 8:30 am local time, approximately 500 meters from the Picton wharf. According to witnesses, the ferry was attempting to dock when it suddenly lost power and drifted towards the shore. The vessel struck the seafloor with a thud, causing minor damage to the hull but no injuries to passengers or crew. Rescue crews have been dispatched to the scene, including two tugboats from Wellington. The tugboats are currently preparing to tow the Aratere back to the wharf, where passengers will be disembarked. The cause of the power failure is still under investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that a technical issue may have caused the vessel to lose propulsion. “We are currently assessing the situation and working to ensure the safety of everyone on board,” said a spokesperson for Interislander. “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.” Passengers on the Aratere have been instructed to remain calm and follow instructions from the crew. They will be provided with updates on the progress of the rescue operation as it unfolds. The grounding of the Aratere has disrupted ferry services between the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Interislander is advising passengers to check the latest updates on its website or social media channels before traveling.Ferry Aground Near Picton, Rescue Operation Underway A passenger ferry, the Aratere, has run aground this morning near Picton in Marlborough. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning, with no reports of injuries to the passengers or crew. The ferry was carrying around 800 passengers and crew when it became stuck on a reef. Two tugboats have been dispatched to assist with the rescue operation, and it is expected that the Aratere will be refloated within the next few hours. The harbourmaster has issued a navigation warning to all vessels in the area, and the Picton port has been closed to inbound and outbound traffic. Emergency services are on standby, and the situation is being closely monitored by the authorities. Passengers and crew on the ferry have been instructed to remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. The cause of the grounding is not yet known, and an investigation will be launched once the ferry has been refloated and returned to port. Updates: 11:00 AM: The tugboats have attached to the Aratere and are beginning to tow it off the reef. 12:30 PM: The Aratere has been successfully refloated and is being towed back to Picton port. 1:15 PM: The Aratere has arrived at the Picton wharf and is assisting passengers and crew with disembarking. 2:00 PM: All passengers and crew have left the ferry, and the incident has been declared over.