If you're thinking of violating fishing rules in the Nelson region, you'd be wise to think twice.
Ministry for Primary Industries Nelson fisheries officers have welcomed a faster, sleeker, more advanced patrol vessel to the fold – one that eliminates the need to go back to base to refuel or to carry fuel on board.
Nelson/Marlborough Chief Compliance Officer, Anthony Little, says the purpose-built vessel provides significantly more capability.
"This vessel has a far greater range, allowing us to go further – uninterrupted – than we’ve gone before. For example, we now have the ability to go beyond Farewell Spit from Nelson. That's a pretty big improvement.
"It's also pretty quick with a top speed of 45 knots or 83km/h.
"We've got a top of the range sea-faring vessel now. The team's very happy."
The 7.5 metre, Picton-built Naiad is aptly named, too. She's called the Kiwa – meaning 'God of all Fish or divine ocean guardian' in Māori.
"We're very happy with the name we came up with – it's very appropriate given the nature of the work she’ll be involved in."
The Kiwa was formally unveiled this morning in a blessing conferred by kaumātua to the Nelson city and Tasman district councils, Archdeacon Andy Joseph.
