The Interislander ferry Kaitaki will resume service on Saturday following major winter maintenance carried out in Singapore.
KiwiRail said the work was necessary to ensure the ship's safety, reliability and performance until new ferries enter service in 2029.
Chief Operations Officer Duncan Roy said scheduling the maintenance during winter was deliberate, to minimise disruption for passengers and freight customers while preparing the vessel for the busy summer season.
Kaitaki's return restores Interislander to a two-ship timetable. The sailing schedule has been adjusted: the Wellington to Picton morning departure moves from 8.45am to 8.30am, and the return Picton to Wellington sailing shifts from 2.15pm to 2.00pm.
KiwiRail said the changes are designed to improve operational reliability and strengthen connections with the Coastal Pacific train.
The operator advised customers to book early for school holidays and Christmas and New Year sailings.
