We’re levelling up the way we do transport

It’s pretty obvious that the world needs to reduce its emissions, fast. We’re doing our bit by only generating electricity from 100% renewable sources, but we know that the buck doesn’t stop there. The electrification of transport is one of the biggest ways that our country can help combat climate change.

That’s why, at Meridian, we’re committed to demonstrating our support of low emissions transport on the roads and in our waterways, Together with East by West and the introduction of the world’s first electric hydro-foiling ferry, we are pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability—and we think that’s pretty cool.

We’re proud to partner with East by West, to help launch Ika Rere – the Southern Hemispheres first fully electric high-performance ferry. Made from carbon fibre, the light, yet durable catamaran can transport up to 132 passengers at a speed of 20 knots, making it faster and quieter than its diesel counterparts. Developed in New Zealand, Ika Rere was built by Wellington Electric Boat Building Company (WEBBCo) for local ferry company, East By West.

We’re taking a significant step forward in sustainable transport by introducing the Candela P-12, a zero-emission hydrofoil ferry, at Lake Manapōuri. This innovative ferry, designed in Sweden, is 100% electric and will save approximately 240 tons of carbon emissions each year – equivalent to taking about 52 petrol cars off the road. Set to enter service in late 2025, the Candela P-12 is an exciting replacement for the diesel ferry we currently use to transport people across the lake to the Manapōuri Power Station. It will drastically reduce emissions and at the same time give our team what’s arguably the best and most spectacular commute in the world.

An EV on the water comes with many of the same benefits as a standard Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), but its quieter, cleaner, cheaper and as above, often faster too. WEBBCo also mentions the reduction in vibrations which makes for a more pleasant passenger experience. An electric boat is powered by large, rechargeable batteries that are charged up at the dock. This energy powers electric motors that turn propellers or a jet that pushes the boat forward. This process wastes far less energy than a diesel or petrol motor.

The captain and other crew can manoeuvre an EV boat much like a regular boat, with controls over speed/power. Other factors like weather and water conditions can affect how this energy is used.

There’s another big factor at play – the design of the hull. Lightweight materials and the shape of the boat can help to reduce resistance in the water and demand less energy from the battery.

A hydrofoil boat operates using underwater wings, known as hydrofoils, which lift the hull above the water as the boat speeds up. This lifting action significantly reduces friction and drag, enabling the boat to move more efficiently and at greater speeds.

The hydrofoils are controlled by a computer system that ensures stability and optimises performance. As the boat rises above the water, it also reduces its wake and the environmental disturbance it causes.