A Bluebridge ferry has hit a navigation light at the end of a wharf as it came into the capital during strong wind gusts this afternoon.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
Customers have been left waiting at the Wellington terminal, for a service already delayed due to the bad weather.
The Straitsman ferry, which was already running an hour late, clipped the navigation light, attached to the sea bed with a pile.
The incident happened just south of Kings Wharf, which is the most eastern of the two areas passengers disembark from.
Bluebridge GM Commercial Ed Menzies said the Master made the decision to discontinue berthing during a particularly strong wind gust.
"Once the gust had passed, the Master manoeuvred the ship into position again and berthed successfully," he said.
The ship will be assessed for damage before its next departure.
There were no reports of injuries.
Wellington Regional harbourmaster Grant Nalder said they were waiting to hear from the company if there was any damage caused.
Margaret Maede said the group she was travelling with had been waiting in the rain and wind for an hour to board with their motorcycles.
Photo: RNZ / Richard Tindiller
"Hopefully we will be able to get to the other side before it gets dark and get to a hotel or something," she said.
Ms Maede wasn't looking forward to the crossing either.
"I'm nervous I'm probably going to lose my guts!" she laughed.
