Ferry and cruise passengers could be facing a new levy. 

The Government is weighing up how to fund a permanent rescue tugboat for the Cook Strait, and a user pays system is on the table.  

They’ve contracted MMA Vision to provide emergency cover in the meantime, but a long-term solution is still up in the air. 

Maritime Union Spokesperson Victor Billot told Mike Hosking they’re happy to see the temporary measures, but there does need to be a long-term plan. 

However, he says they’re unsure a user pays model is the right fit, or that it would be easy to enforce.  

LISTEN ABOVE