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Ferry services are being almost doubled to 14 return sailings a day between the upper Waitemata Harbour and central Auckland.
The Auckland Regional Transport Authority announced on Wednesday that a third ferry would be introduced to the West Harbour route on Monday to cope with strong passenger demand.
The trip takes only about 35 minutes, depending on the weather conditions.
It can take motorists up to an hour to cover the same distance in peak-time traffic, and buses even longer.
The new 50-passenger vessel will join two smaller craft already operated on the run by Belaire Ferries with a subsidy from the authority, enabling the addition of six daily return services.
Authority customer services chief Mark Lambert said: "Auckland's beautiful harbour makes commuting by ferry a very popular transport choice so we are pleased to be able to provide additional services."
He acknowledged that would be at the cost of some increases in fares, although for the first time in almost three years.
Adult one-way and return fares will remain at $12 and $20 respectively, but those for children and senior citizens will rise to $8 and $15, from $7 and $12.
Ten-trip concessions will also rise from $79 to $87 for adults, from $55 to $72 for children and senior citizens and from $65 to $72 for tertiary students.
Belaire Ferries manager Adam Tallentire said the service had been running at full capacity for six to nine months - producing an annual loading of about 38,000 passengers.
He predicted the extra vessel would be a welcome addition for West Harbour and Hobsonville residents seeking an alternative to road transport.
