New in-water cleaning technology designed to help commercial vessels meet New Zealand’s biofouling requirements — while protecting the marine environment — will be operating in Auckland this summer, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says.
The system has been co-developed by the Port of Auckland and New Zealand Diving and Salvage Limited (NZDS), with support from Biosecurity New Zealand.
The technology targets hard-to-clean areas of vessel hulls, including sea chests and propeller shafts, providing a safe and practical solution for spot cleaning while ships are in port. This reduces the need for offshore cleaning and helps minimise disruption to passenger services and cargo operations.
“It will help vessel operators meet their biosecurity responsibilities without disrupting passenger or cargo operations,” Minister Hoggard said.
Biosecurity New Zealand received the application for approval in October and completed its evaluation in December, following successful trials on domestic vessels. Provisional approval means the system can now be used this summer on arriving vessels, including cruise ships.
“Marine growth on vessel hulls poses a real biosecurity risk to New Zealand’s marine environment,” Hoggard said. “This work reflects Biosecurity New Zealand’s commitment to helping operators comply with biofouling and other biosecurity requirements.”
He said the Government remains focused on protecting New Zealand’s unique marine ecosystems, aquaculture industry and economy, while also recognising the commercial pressures faced by the shipping and cruise industries.
“Making compliance with our biosecurity requirements as straightforward as possible is a priority,” he said.
Biosecurity New Zealand will continue working with NZDS to refine and optimise the technology as it is rolled out.
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