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Ferry operator Fullers says hosts of large events on Waiheke Island should consider hiring charter services, so patrons aren't left stranded overnight.
About 120 people were left at the ferry terminal after they could not all fit on to the last Fullers ferry at 12.30am on Sunday.
Some waiting passengers reportedly broke into the terminal, helping themselves to food and attempting to light fires to keep warm.
Fullers operations manager Ian Greenslade said on Monday that extra staff had been rostered on to deal with people returning from a dance party at Stonyridge vineyard.
However, no extra sailings had been scheduled.
Mr Greenslade said although Fullers' failure to send another ferry for the remaining passengers was unacceptable, there had been "a number of issues beyond our control".
"We will be working with event organisers, restaurants and venue operators to provide extra capacity, but the organisers of large events may be invited to consider providing charter services for their patrons as an option."
Mr Greenslade said the company had concerns about safety when late-night ferries sailed at full capacity.
The company would review its internal procedures to ensure there wasn't a repeat of the weekend's events.
- NZPA
