I find it strange that they are classified as port tenders in some publications when they are obviously tugs built by a world renown tug builder and designer. I did read that the Te Matua may be sold which would be a big upgrade for Southport, will be interesting to see what they rename her.

Regards Robbie

Hi Robbie, They are both nice looking tugs.Thanks for finding the IMO numbers out. I looked around a bit including on Equasis but did not manage to locate them.
It appears the Port of Tauranga is trying to sell the 1992 built tug "Te Matua", IMO 9032460, to Southport, according to a recent Shipping Gazette. This would be to replace the 1973 built "Monowai", IMO 7329235, and would mean a 28 tonne bollard pull tug would be replaced with a 40 tonne bollard pull tug.

Great shot of this new tug. Her IMO number is 9727766. her sister Tai Timu has an IMO number of 9727778.

Cheers Robbie