1 February 2005
First stage of major upgrade nears completion
Passengers and motorists should look out for changes to the Downtown Ferry Terminal over the next two weeks, as stage
one of the $10.5m terminal upgrade reaches completion and services move back to Pier 1.
The upgrade is being managed by the Auckland Regional Transport Network Limited (ARTNL), in which Auckland City is the
majority shareholder.
Motorists, visitors and passengers should watch for signage showing new pick-up and drop-off locations and changes to
vehicle and pedestrian traffic movements around the terminal, as Pier 2 closes to allow for stage two of the terminal
upgrade to begin.
As of Wednesday 9 February public drop-off and pick-up areas, motorcycle and bicycle parking and taxi ranks will move
permanently from Pier 2 across to new areas on Pier 1, says Simon Laird, ARTNL’s transport and operations executive.
“We are asking the public to be mindful of safety as they go about their travel and to follow directional signage around
the terminal area, especially with Waiheke’s Wine and Food Festival happening this weekend.
“Pedestrian safety has been paramount throughout the upgrade. We have introduced taxi ranks on the pier rather than
outside on Quay Street, and a wider turning area for pick-up and drop-off. There will be no public parking on the
wharves, so people needing to park should use the Downtown car park across the road, or find alternative permanent
parking if required,” says Mr Laird.
“The upgrade of Pier 1 is almost complete. The new covered waiting area, ticket kiosk and public toilets will all help
make people’s ferry experience much more pleasant.
“A licensed cafe will also be opening at the end of the month offering travellers a chance to enjoy a glass of wine
while waiting for their ferry,” says Mr Laird.
The new Pier 2 terminal building is expected to be completed in June 2005, and will also include a new ticket kiosk,
covered waiting areas, more public toilets and baggage lockers. Plans for a bridge connecting the two new terminals are
currently in development.
ENDS