Johnson’s Barge Service

Professional Marine Transport in Marlborough Sounds

Johnsons Barge Service has been operating in the Marlborough Sounds, D’Urville & Nelson Area since 1919. With our diverse fleet of vessels and highly skilled team, we aim to provide a safe, reliable & consistent service to our clients - no matter how obscure the task may be.

Johnson's Barge Service

Heavy Cargo Transport

Expert barge services for transporting everything from construction materials and vehicles to bulk gravel, stock, and oversized loads — safely and efficiently across the Marlborough Sounds.

Marine Logistics
& Access Solutions

We specialise in on-water logistics for even the toughest locations. With 4WD pivot steer loaders, forklifts, hiabs, and helicopter lifting options, we make sure your materials get exactly where they need to be.

Versatile,
Well-Equipped Fleet

Our diverse fleet of motorised barges, landing crafts, towing vessels, and non-propelled barges is designed to handle a wide range of projects. Equipped with heavy winch gear and modern machinery, we’re ready for any job.

Mooring
Installation
& Maintenance

From new installations to repairs, audits, and cleaning, we offer a complete swing mooring service backed by decades of expertise and compliance with local authority standards.

Flexible Scheduling
& Reliable Service

With over 100 years of experience, we pride ourselves on adapting to tides, weather, and project timelines while delivering a consistent, dependable service you can trust.

Local Knowledge
& Proven Expertise

Operating in the Marlborough Sounds, D’Urville, Croiselles Harbour, and Nelson regions since 1919, our team combines unmatched local knowledge with the skills and equipment to get the job done.

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What our clients are saying...

"We have been farming Patuki on the northern tip of d’Urville Island for the last 20 years and Johnsons Barge Service have been a critical part of our business. We generally have four or five barges a year taking out sheep, cattle and wool and delivering all our heavy supplies. We also have to work around the tides and the weather. Johnsons have provided an efficient, friendly and professional service and have done their best to be flexible when animals or the weather have caused unforeseen complications."

Gus Forgan

“At David Wraight Cottages, we’ve worked with Johnson’s Barge Services to deliver several of our homes into Kaiuma Bay. Each time, their team has been professional, reliable, and great to deal with. They run a well-organised operation with real attention to detail, making the whole process smooth and stress-free.”

Need Name Here

"For us in the Outer Marlborough Sounds not only a familiar sight since generations, but a lifeline and backbone to our families, farming and building. The great team at Johnson’s barge Service will always “sail” the extra mile to keep us all together and prosperous!”