Transport operators are waiting with bated breath for the Cook Strait ferry announcement expected today. 

It's understood the Government will finally share plans for the future of the Interislander service after cancelling the previous project. 

While Transporting New Zealand's Billy Clemens won't speculate on the Government's plans, he told Heather du Plessis-Allan he's hopeful it will ensure the longevity for the vital service. 

He says there must be a competitive market. 

There are also hopes rail is a key aspect of the looming announcement after the Government scrapped plans for rail-enabled mega-ferries a year ago. 

Rail compatible means carriages can be transferred on and off, rather than trains themselves.  

Clemens du Plessis-Allan that operators need a reliable way to transport rail. 

He says rail compatibility would still allow for flexibility but would cost less to build than the previous rail enabled ferries. 

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