17 August 2006
PRESS RELEASE
New maritime vessel for Police and Customs
A replacement for the Auckland Police launch Deodar ll will be operational by the end of 2007.
In a joint announcement today by the Commissioner of Police Howard Broad and the Comptroller of Customs Martyn Dunne, the tender for the new vessel has been awarded to a New Zealand-owned and operated company, Q-West Boat Builders Limited of Wanganui.
"This ushers in a new era in maritime safety and border control with Police and Customs working more closely together as part of the whole-of-government approach to enhance border law enforcement," said Commissioner Broad.
Mr Dunne said, "This new arrangement builds on our strong partnership with the New Zealand Police. By sharing resources, Customs and Police can achieve better results for the public and the Government."
Police Minister, Annette King said she welcomed the announcement. "The vessel will be an example of using our resources collectively and will benefit New Zealand's maritime safety and border security."
The joint Police-Customs tender process for the new craft was conducted in accordance with government procurement procedures and guidelines.
The replacement vessel will provide increased capability to carry out all the tasks currently performed by the Deodar II, as well as some taskings for Customs around maritime patrol and craft interdiction.
The Deodar ll replacement, to be built by Q-West, is a foil supported, aluminium twin-hull vessel, 18.4 metres long and will have a surface speed of 25 knots. Subject to funding and vessel performance, the replacement vessel, designed by Auckland company Technicraft, will be the prototype for the replacement of vessels currently operated by Police and Customs.
Q-West Boat Builders Limited specialises in manufacturing vessels up to 40 metres and has considerable experience in building high-speed commercial craft.
Senior Sergeant Martin Paget of the Police Maritime Unit in Auckland said the proposal by Q-West is an exciting mix of proven design and ultra-modern technology.
"The Deodar II replacement is a significant technical step forward for Police and Customs and we believe it will meet both agencies' requirements into the future."
ENDS
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