Good news for Auckland ferry users - a trial of better services is to be extended. The ferry timetable trial by Auckland Transport and Fullers has seen patronage increase overall by an average of 86 per cent. The trial included more ferry sailings to and from Birkenhead, Northcote Point, Bayswater and Half Moon Bay on weekends.
It also included new sailing times during the day and later evening Saturday departures from downtown Auckland.
The trial began in December last year and was scheduled to end this month but as a result of its success has been extended to April 22.
Over the three month trial period, patronage improved by 20% for Half Moon Bay and by 159% on North Shore services compared to the same period in 2011. Additional Saturday sailings also showed good uptake and steadily increasing patronage numbers.
From Saturday March 3 the North Shore timetable has some minor changes to the departure times from Bayswater, Birkenhead and Northcote Point.
Auckland Transport Public Transport Operations Manager Mark Lambert says customer feedback has been very favourable.
“It shows more people are turning on to ferry travel as a pleasant work commute and for sightseeing and visiting local attractions.
“There are more sailing options during the day and in response to customer demand we have added later evening departures so they can socialise longer in the CBD before heading home.
“We have also responded to Bayswater Marina residents concerned about wake issues from ferries so have changed the direction ferries will depart from Auckland.
At the end of the trial Auckland Transport and Fullers will assess patronage figures and customer feedback before making a permanent change to the timetable.