The Interislander ferry Aratere has completed her first test run, with a freight sailing across Cook Strait early this morning.

The ferry is gradually starting sailings again following a three month refurbishment in Singapore after its propeller fell off in November last year.

An Interislander spokeswoman says last night's freight sailing was a test run.

She says the Aratere will start on its reduced timetable for freight-only crossings in the next week.