Customs isn't talking yet about the size of the investment it is announcing today in a ‘world-class patrol vessel' to reinforce and enhance the protection of New Zealand's maritime border.

It won't state a price because some of the contracts for the new boat are still being finalised, says Customs Minister Nicky Wagner.

Hawk V will be designed, built and accessorised to world-class standards. Photo: Supplied.

The Hawk V will replace Hawk IV, which has been in service for 18 years. It will be similar in size to the police launch Deodar III, and like Deodar III, be designed by Teknicraft and built by Q-West in aluminium.

Deodar III is 17.4m Loa, 6.9m wide and has a service speed of 30knots and a top speed of 43 knots. Deodar III is Hamilton Jet powered, driven by twin MTU 8V2000 M92 diesels.)

'The new vessel will be based in Auckland, and operate with a crew of four Customs officers with specialist maritime expertise. Delivery is expected in 2017-2018,” says Nicky in a prepared statement.

Showing the boat on the back. Photo: Supplied.

'Customs has always had a strong maritime role that spans across its 176-year history. While the early days of chasing tobacco smugglers are long gone, maintaining its capabilities to respond to threats is as crucial as ever,” says Nicky.

'I'm delighted to announce this new vessel, which will be locally-designed, purpose-built, and equipped with state-of-the-art electronics. It will boost Customs' capabilities to identify risk and carry out enforcement work beyond our territorial waters.”

'The decision comes after 15 months of consultation and contribution by partner agencies and maritime experts to confirm the best vessel to safeguard the future.”

Customs say Hawk V will be similar to the police launch Deodar III. Photo: Supplied.

Hawk IV has been in operation since 1998.

Customs' first custom-built vessel Hawk was commissioned in 1881.Photo: Supplied.