MP calls urgent meeting over 'significant tension' on Waiheke Island ferries

Sunday, 26 May 2019

An MP has called an urgent meeting following reports of 'significant tension' on board ferries to and from Waiheke Island.

Nikki Kaye, the MP for Auckland Central, has written to Fullers chief executive Mike Horne, Auckland Mayor Phil Goff, and the board of Auckland Transport requesting a meeting.

She had received a number of complaints from residents regarding cancelled services and 'massive' queues, she said.

'The queues are obviously really concerning. There are situations where people can't get on because of those queues.'

READ MORE: Waiheke Island ferry users say 'enough is enough'

Kaye said she was also concerned about overcrowding due to reduced winter sailings to and from the island, which is about 22km from downtown Auckland.

The New Zealand Herald reported the overcrowding had led to commuters lashing out at ferry staff, shoving workers and shouting abuse.

Kaye said on Sunday the tension was not a new issue, and had been building for months.

She was hoping to meet with Goff, Horne and Auckland Transport within the week to 'get some clarity' about how to the situation would be improved in future.

This is not the first time Kaye has raised concerns over the Waiheke ferry.

In 2016, she raised the issue with Goff after a large vessel was taken out of service because of a double engine failure, leading to late sailings and overcrowding.

'It's not just about commuters, it's about the sick and vulnerable,' resident Judith Madarasz said at the time.

'People have to get to hospital appointments, and they can't get there in time.'

Residents also reported frustration they could not get priority boarding over tourists, who flock to the island in the warmer months.

Waiheke Island Local Board chairwoman Cath Handley and Fullers have been contacted for comment.