Posted on August 13, 2026
Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou has gifted the name, Kapuka, to the new $36m trailing suction hopper dredge owned by Napier Port and Port Otago and due to arrive in New Zealand in December.
The name Kapuka means “to scoop out with both hands together.” Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou Upoko Edward Ellison says the name was derived from an ancient legend.
In addition to maintenance and capital dredging for both ports, Kapuka will also be on hand to respond to unforeseen events, such as when emergency dredging was required, post extreme weather events, in order to maintain safe shipping channels and lifeline access into New Zealand ports.
The sheer scale of Kapuka is such that she has taken almost two years to build. Commissioning begins next month, followed by sea trials. She is expected to reach Port Chalmers in December, with a Damen crew undertaking the 32- to 38-day journey from Vietnam.
The trailing suction hopper dredge (TSHD) has a capacity of 1000m3, a deadweight of 1400 tons with pump performance of approx. 2000m3/hour.
“It is a privilege listening to Edward tell us of the Rūnaka legend, and gifting the name, Kapuka, which resonates with our kaimahi and fits the vessel so perfectly,” said Kevin Winders, Port Otago chief executive.
Todd Dawson, chief executive of Napier Port, added: “We’re very grateful to Te Rūnaka o Ōtākou for gifting the name Kapuka. The story behind the name, and the connection it draws between our two regions, makes it particularly fitting for a vessel that will serve both ports.
“Kapuka is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration between two ports with similar needs.”
