The team purchasing the newly public-owned Cook Strait ferries says the process can't be compared to private contractors.

Kiwirail's new ferries aren't expected to be in service until Christmas 2029.

Ferry Holdings Chair, Chris Mackenzie, says part of the issue is the Government is buying new ferries - not second-hand.

He also told Heather du Plessis-Allan they fulfil different needs, with the Government providing a year-round service, which the private sector can't afford.

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