A computer glitch on the trouble-plagued Interislander ferry Aratere has put the summer travel plans of hundreds of travellers on hold.
All sailings of the Aratere have been cancelled today while technicians work on the issue, which has affected the ferry's propulsion system.
Passengers who were booked on the 6.30am sailing from Wellington to Picton will have to wait until the Kaitaki departs Wellington at 9pm, while a return sailing from Picton has been scheduled for 2am tomorrow.
Interislander spokeswoman Sophie Lee said technicians were looking into the issue.
"We think it's a problem with the computer system on the ship, which is affecting the propulsion system, so it's an electronic issue," she said.
"We're hoping to have the issue resolved in time for tomorrow's sailings."
Ms Lee said it was hoped all affected passengers and cargo would be accommodated on the Kaitaki sailings.
She said the issue was not related to the ship's recent $54 million revamp, nor the ship's engine problems which put a stop to passenger sailings for more than a week in 2011.
The Aratere is one of three Interislander ferries operated by KiwiRail.
