The case for investment in Auckland’s vital ferry network

Future Ferry Program Business Case

Auckland’s ferry network plays a key role providing critical access to other parts of the region, serving individuals and businesses alike. However, a host of factors such as the economic climate, cost control measures, changing use patterns or levels of investment can degrade a system like a ferry network. Auckland found itself with an ageing and unreliable fleet, which combined with a lack of investment in services, vessels, and infrastructure, led to a period of managed decline and a cycle of breakdowns and limited capacity, losing the community’s confidence in the network.

We were engaged to develop the Future Ferry Program Business Case to support investment in Auckland's ferry network and recommend a way forward. The preferred program included a fleet upgrade, ferry service improvements, landside and wharf improvements, and improvements for active modes of transport, such as cycle lanes. We identified short, medium, and long-term activities, as well as the need for further investigation as part of a series of detailed business cases.

When implemented, the program recommendations will provide users and communities a more reliable and accessible network. The physical upgrades and operational changes will also support a cleaner and more sustainable environment.