UZMAR Shipyard has officially commenced construction of a new hybrid rotortug for Port of Tauranga, with the steel cutting ceremony held last week.

The ceremony was attended by senior executives and project representatives from both organizations, marking the start of construction for what will become the first hybrid tugboat in the fleet of New Zealand’s largest port.

The 32-metre hybrid advanced rotortug has been designed to enhance maneuverability, towing performance and operational efficiency while significantly reducing emissions and diesel consumption through hybrid propulsion technology.

Port of Tauranga, which handles more than 1,400 ship visits annually, selected UZMAR following a detailed design and evaluation process involving several international shipyards.

The new tug will deliver 80 tonnes of bollard pull, providing improved towing capability and operational flexibility under a wider range of sea and wind conditions compared to the port’s existing tug fleet.

Once delivered, the vessel will replace the port’s oldest tug, Sir Robert, and will operate alongside the existing azimuth stern drive tugs Tai Pari and Tai Timu.

Commenting on the milestone, A. Noyan Altug, President & CEO of UZMAR Shipyard, said the project reflects a shared commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

“We are proud to begin construction of this landmark hybrid tug project for Port of Tauranga. This collaboration reflects our shared vision for safer, more efficient and environmentally responsible port operations.”

The vessel is scheduled for delivery in mid-2027.