Port Taranaki’s new tug will bear a name that honours its role as a strong, resolute and honest worker on the sea.

Kīnaki (pronounced keey-nah-key with the accent on the ‘keey’) has been chosen by Ngāti Te Whiti hapu and Port Taranaki as the name for the 25m in-harbour tractor tug, which is in the early stages of construction at Turkish company Sanmar Shipyards.

Ngāti Te Whiti cultural advisor Shane Cassidy said the naming process involved discussions with hapu representatives, including kaumatua and kuia.

“Kīnaki is the name of one of two mouri or stones situated within the breakwater of Port Taranaki. This particular mouri is situated near Blyde Wharf. A mouri is the material symbol of a life principle and source of emotions,” Mr Cassidy said.

“Many names were suggested, but we wanted to use a name that meant a lot to us and had significance to the port and the area the tug will be working.”

Kīnaki is of great significance to Ngāti Te Whiti and was historically the centre of ceremonies, including the departure of large fishing expeditions and catch landings.

“It protects the boats that come into the port, as the tug does. To the hapu the mouri signifies and complements mana, strength, resoluteness and honesty – attributes we feel align well with the design and nature of work for the new tug.”

Port Taranaki chief executive Guy Roper said he was delighted with the name chosen and the ongoing relationship between the port and Ngāti Te Whiti.

“Kīnaki, and the meaning behind it, is truly fitting for the new tug – it really represents the work of the tug. We will arrange a blessing ceremony with Ngāti Te Whiti when the tug arrives and look forward to having Kīnaki on the water,” Mr Roper said.

The tug, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2017 and in operation at Port Taranaki in April 2018, will replace the 45-year-old Kupe, the oldest of Port Taranaki’s three tugs.

The state-of-the-art tug will have a maximum bollard pull in excess of 65 tonnes and will include Caterpillar engines, Rolls-Royce propellers, and an electric towing winch by DMT. It will boast three two-berth cabins and will be operated by three people.