Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Aid and Development – Press Release/Statement:
Headline: Tokelau ferry handover celebrated
MV Mataliki in Apia Harbour.
The New Zealand Government officially handed over the MV Mataliki to the Tokelau Government in Apia, Samoa today.
The MV Mataliki is a new purpose-built passenger and cargo vessel designed to meet the essential shipping needs of Tokelau’s three atolls – Atafu, Nukunonu and Fakaofo.
The ship was funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme. New Zealand invested $12.5 million in its design and build.
New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Murray McCully, at the handover event, said: “New Zealand is committed to the special constitutional relationship we share with Tokelau and the handover of the Mataliki today is a milestone in improving Tokelau’s connectivity with the Pacific region and the wider world.”
The Mataliki is capable of transporting up to 60 passengers on the international voyage between Samoa and Tokelau, and up to 120 passengers between the atolls.
The new ship is larger and more efficient than previous vessels owned by the Government of Tokelau. It has been specifically designed for Tokelau, with input from Tokelauans on their priority requirements.
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