About Us

Johnson’s Barge Service is owned and operated by a partnership between Nautilus Pacific Limited, O’Donnell Park Barging Limited and Kenny Barging Limited — all born-and-bred Marlborough businesses committed to supporting local communities through dependable marine transport and logistics services.

Backed by local knowledge and industry experience

Company directors Beau Simonsen and Kim O'Donnell bring a combined 65 years of experience within the marine industry, along with a strong passion for delivering practical, reliable marine solutions throughout the region.

Day-to-day operations are managed by Jared Rowe, Kim Weatherhead and Jonny Everett, operating from the southeast corner of the Havelock Marina and continuing the trusted service the Johnson family provided for generations.

Practical solutions delivered safely and efficiently

We pride ourselves on working alongside our clients to help make projects straightforward, efficient and completed safely. From freight and livestock transport through to marine support and commercial operations, our experienced team is committed to delivering reliable service across the Marlborough Sounds and beyond.

Supporting marine, rural and commercial operations

Johnson’s Barge Service operates five main vessels, including the motorised barges Pukatea, Mahoe, Titoki and Manatu, alongside Hinau, a dumb barge coupled to the tugboat Tawhai.

Operating primarily throughout the Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds and D’Urville Island, the fleet also services Nelson, Golden Bay and Wellington when required.

Versatile vessels supporting the wider region

Manatu supports salmon farm operations at Waitata, Waihinau, Forsyth and Blue Endeavour in the Cook Strait, while also assisting with deliveries and salvage work throughout the Sounds.

Pukatea undertakes general barge operations and works closely with the farming community to transport livestock and supplies to remote areas.

Mahoe harvests fish from NZ King Salmon farms throughout the Pelorus and Queen Charlotte Sounds, operating primarily from Picton.

Titoki is the fleet’s newest addition — compact, powerful and versatile enough to assist with moorings, deliveries and towing operations throughout the region.

Continuing the Johnson family legacy

In keeping with Johnson family traditions, Tawhai — originally designed by Eric Johnson and built in 1966 — continues to operate throughout the Sounds alongside Hinau.

Hinau transports logs, heavy machinery and bulk loads throughout the region and remains an important part of the fleet’s operations today.

A Brief History

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Professional marine transport and barge services throughout Marlborough Sounds. Serving Queen Charlotte Sound, Pelorus Sound, and Kenepuru Sound with reliable cargo transport solutions.