Takapo marks a new chapter for Solander by introducing the latest advancements in energy efficiency and regeneration to New Zealand's deep-sea fishing grounds.

Thanks to the extensive experience and stellar reputation of Tersan Shipyard in trawler construction, the new Aurora project will set the standard as a leading fishing vessel in the region. The vessel is designed and built for both pelagic and demersal trawling, targeting Southern Blue Whiting, Jack Mackerel, and Ling, as well as squid and Hake in New Zealand waters. She boasts a freezer hold cargo capacity of 2135 m³ for graded products on pallets.

"We are immensely proud to be the builders of this state-of-the-art vessel for Aurora Fisheries. Takapo will be the first vessel delivered to New Zealand from Tersan, making her exceptionally special to us. We are committed to advancing the construction process to deliver her on schedule," says Mehmet Gazioğlu, Managing Director of Tersan Shipyard.

The vessel, designed by Skipsteknisk and constructed under supervision of DNV class society and New Zealand regulations, will operate within New Zealand's and Antarctica's waters while adhering to all environmental and international standards. Featuring a length of 80 meters and a beam of 15 meters, Takapo offers high-comfort living accommodation for 50 people.

She is powered by a 4,880 kW main engine, reaching a top speed of 15 knots. She is also equipped with a 3,000 kW shaft generator and two auxiliary generators.

The vessel has an advanced processing factory on board where the catch will be processed and packaged as fillets or head and gutted products, then frozen at -30 degrees and stored in cold storage. Additionally, the ship is equipped with a Surimi processing system and a 250-ton capacity Reverse Osmosis system.

"I would like to thank Tersan Shipyard for their unwavering commitment to excellence. Their world- class facilities and expertise have made them the perfect partner in bringing this vision to life. This launch is a testament to their dedication to quality craftsmanship and innovation." says Paul Hufflett, CEO of Aurora Fisheries.

Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, the Ambassador of New Zealand and Embassy Representatives, as well as Solander and it’s partner company representatives, attended the ceremony and enjoyed the exciting launch and the celebrations that followed.

Maritime Business World