After months of dedicated engagement, planning, and community feedback, the Auckland-Coromandel ferry will officially return this Labour Weekend. Its successful reinstatement is a shining example of what can be achieved when local voices are heard, and when collaboration between community, council, and economic partners comes together with a shared vision.
The return of the ferry has been one of the most talked-about topics in our town over the past year. With strong community spirit and persistence, the case for reinstating the service was carried forward to ensure Coromandel remains accessible and connected. This success owes much to the joint efforts of the Coromandel-Colville Business Association and Thames-Coromandel District Council’s Economic Development team, playing pivotal roles in pulling together the information, feedback, and support needed to get the trial service across the line. Their energy, commitment, and belief in the potential of the ferry for our community cannot be overstated.
We also acknowledge and thank Explore Group, who have stepped up and taken on the delivery of the service. It is heartening to know that a New Zealand-owned company has taken charge of this project, recognising the importance of the connection between Auckland and Coromandel. Their commitment to making this trial a reality is deeply appreciated and is a crucial part of this success story.
The trial service, which will run through until April, is a vital opportunity for Coromandel. It is more than just a transport link – it is a gateway that brings visitors, families, and opportunities into our town. Local businesses will benefit, with ferry passengers choosing to dine, shop, and stay here. Accommodation providers, retailers, and hospitality venues all stand to gain from the steady flow of visitors arriving directly into the heart of Coromandel.
The ferry’s return is also being celebrated beyond our community. TCDC has entered this initiative into the Economic Development New Zealand (EDNZ) Best Practice Awards in the Collaboration category. This award celebrates outstanding partnerships between two or more organisations that have joined forces to achieve significant positive economic outcomes. The nomination recognises how the combined efforts of council, community, and operators have produced results far exceeding what could have been achieved individually. It highlights the power of strategic alliances in driving growth, prosperity, and resilience.
But the success of this trial does not rest solely on the work already done. Its future depends on us – the local community. To secure the ferry as a permanent service, it is critical that the community continues to support it, spread the word, and encourage visitors to make use of it. Every ticket purchased, every trip taken, helps demonstrate that the service is viable and valued.
The ferry is not just about boosting business; it is about strengthening the lifeline that connects Coromandel to Auckland and beyond. It means easier access for families visiting loved ones, more options for weekend escapes, and a sustainable transport link that eases pressure on our roads. It also represents resilience – showing how our community, when faced with a challenge, can work together to find solutions and achieve results.
This achievement is a credit to everyone who attended engagement sessions, shared their feedback, voiced their support, and believed in the value of the ferry. It highlights the best of Coromandel: a community that pulls together, values connection, and looks to the future with optimism.
Now, we have the chance to build on this momentum. The ferry’s future is in our hands. If we back it, use it, and continue to show how much it matters, we can secure this essential service for years to come.
So, whether you’re planning a trip to Auckland, welcoming friends and family, or just wanting to experience the joy of arriving home by sea, let’s make the most of the ferry’s return. This trial is our opportunity – let’s ensure it becomes a permanent part of Coromandel’s future.
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