The Interislander Kaitaki ferry has declared a mayday.

Wellington regional harbourmaster Grant Nalder said the ferry was making its way towards Wellington when it lost all power.

“They weren’t able to restore it, they were drifting, they’ve got an anchor down, and they declared a mayday.”

Nalder said tug boats were heading in the direction of the ferry, but the conditions were rough.

He said the ship has been blown towards the shore and described the situation as serious.

”They are in a difficult position at the moment.

”[The ferry] has got into shallower water so her anchors are down and they will become more effective as it gets closer to shore, so that should slow her down or even hold her in place.”

Nalder expected passengers will have been given life jackets as the crew would be following emergency proceedings on board.

Nalder said the ferry was southwest of Sinclear Head off Wellington’s South Coast.