Skandi supply vessels berth
Two offshore supply vessels, which have been used to support deep sea drilling rigs off the Taranaki coast, berthed at Timaru’s port last week but mystery surrounds their arrival.
A spokesperson from Kingston Offshore Services, the New Zealand agent of the Skandi Emerald and Skandi Atlantic, said the vessels were berthed at Timaru awaiting their next job.
But he wasn’t prepared to divulge exactly what that job might be.
‘‘It is all a bit sensitive at the moment.
‘‘They’re just sitting there laid up until their next contract. I don’t really have anything to offer at this time,’’ he said.
The two offshore supply vessels, which had been supporting the $300 million deep sea drilling rig COSL Prospector, off Taranaki, until operations were suspended last month, came to Timaru on October 22 via New Plymouth, he said.
PrimePort chief executive Phil Melhopt said ‘‘the Skandi tugs requested a berth and they will be here for an undefined period at this stage’’.
According to PrimePort Timaru’s shipping schedule the Skandi tugs will remain in Timaru until November 26.
Meanwhile, two Sea Shepherd boats also visited Timaru this week as part of a project to count Hector’s dolphins which are classified as nationally vulnerable by the Department of Conservation.
Sea Shepherd spokesperson Michael Lawry said Operation Pahu to help ensure the survival of Hector’s dolphins, which are estimated to number about 15,000, was Sea Shepherd New Zealand’s first official campaign of its kind.
‘‘The campaign will see Sea Shepherd New Zealand use their new vessel, the Loki, to patrol the south-eastern coast of the South Island to assist in the protection of the Pahu,’’ he said.
‘‘By monitoring fishing vessels, as well as keeping an eye out for any illegal practices, Sea Shepherd New Zealand will be able to assist local scientists, government and enforcement in keeping an eye on these waters that play a critical role in the survival of the species.’’
Lawry said Sea Shepherd was using science, community engagement and civilian monitoring of fishing activity through Operation Pahu to protect the dolphins before it was too late to save them.