32m hybrid Rotortug will deliver 80 tonnes bollard pull and reduced emissions
Turkish shipbuilder UZMAR Shipyard has officially commenced construction of a new hybrid Rotortug for the Port of Tauranga, New Zealand’s largest port, with a steel cutting ceremony held on the 2nd March.
The ceremony was attended by senior executives and project representatives from both organisations, marking the formal start of construction on what will become the first hybrid tug in the Port of Tauranga fleet.
The 32-metre advanced Rotortug has been designed to enhance manoeuvrability, towing performance and operational efficiency. Equipped with hybrid propulsion technology, the vessel is expected to significantly reduce emissions and diesel consumption.
Handling more than 1,400 ship visits annually, the Port of Tauranga selected UZMAR following a detailed design and evaluation process involving several international shipyards.
The new tug will deliver 80 tonnes of bollard pull, providing improved towing capability and greater operational flexibility across a wider range of sea and wind conditions compared to the port’s existing fleet.
Once delivered, the vessel will replace the port’s oldest tug, Sir Robert, and will operate alongside the azimuth stern drive tugs Tai Pari and Tai Timu.
Commenting on the milestone, A. Noyan Altug, President & CEO of UZMAR Shipyard, said: “We are proud to begin construction of this landmark hybrid Rotortug project for the Port of Tauranga. This collaboration reflects our shared vision for safer, more efficient and environmentally responsible port operations.”
Port of Tauranga Chief Executive, Leonard Sampson, said the purchase follows a detailed design phase to address the Port’s operational, environmental and safety needs. “The Rotortug design will provide us with enhanced manoeuvrability and precision, with greater strength in emergency situations, and reduce our reliance on diesel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions thanks to the hybrid technology.”
The vessel is scheduled for delivery in mid-2027.
