Auckland ferry passengers to wait in style

By STUART DYE transport reporter

The first major upgrade of Auckland's downtown ferry terminal in more than 30 years will begin next week.

Costing almost $10 million, the new-look terminal is intended to have the facilities and comfort of an airport lounge.

Work begins on December 1 and includes three new ferry berths, a 200-strong seating area, covered walkways and waiting areas, a bar and cafe, electronic travel information boards, improved security with CCTV, and public toilets.

Auckland Regional Transport Network, the authority behind the project, says the upgrade will provide capacity for an expected 10 per cent increase in patronage.

It will also transform the run-down terminal into an attractive gateway to Auckland.

"It is architecturally designed to marry in with the contemporary style of Britomart while at the same time complementing the heritage of the area," said Kevin Brown, ARTNL manager ferry terminals and construction.

Ferry trips have experienced a 36 per cent increase from 3.6 to 4.9 million trips in the last year.