Island Direct's new Auckland - Waiheke passenger ferry, Te Waipiki. Photo: Supplied / Island Direct
A new ferry between Auckland and Waiheke Island has sailed into service.
"We're on the water, we're operating and we're all ready for passengers, which is very exciting" - Island Direct founder David Todd
Island Direct's 50-seat passenger ferry, Te Waipiki, will make up to 18 trips a day between Auckland's Downtown Ferry Terminal and Waiheke's Matiatia Wharf.
Up until now Fullers360 has dominated the route, but it has come under scrutiny in recent months after travel disruptions and price hikes.
The new service's founder, David Todd, told RNZ's Midday Report he had spent the morning travelling back and forth on the ferry, talking to passengers and getting some feedback.
There had been a good number of people on board during the first crossings and he was hoping for a busy summer ahead.
Todd said a one-way ticket cost $27.50 and a return $50, and the company was looking to introduce a multi-pass option in the next couple of weeks.
Passengers could also pre-book seats on the Island Direct service at no additional cost.
"We're talking to Auckland Transport regarding the HOP Card and Gold Card, so we're pretty keen to get the various offerings going forward."
In a media release, Todd said regular commuters would be "essential" to the new service's success.
"It's been great to talk to our friends and neighbours on Waiheke Island about the new service and how we can better serve the community we love."
Setting up the new venture had been "pretty streamlined", he told RNZ, with the biggest challenge being the purchase of a vessel.
"We're on the water, we're operating and we're all ready for passengers, which is very exciting."