19 Apr 2020

$25m proposal for two electric ferries to service Wellington airport

8:57 pm on 19 April 2020

Commuters could one day be hitching a ride from the Wellington CBD to the airport by electric ferry.

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East by West says the electric ferries proposal made financial sense, costing a lot less than a rail service. Photo: RNZ /Dom Thomas

East By West ferries plans to introduce an electric ferry on the Days Bay route later this year.

In a proposal to the government's infrastructure fund, the company has asked for money to develop the Miramar Peninsula and introduce two new electric ferries.

East by West managing director Jeremy Ward said it made financial sense, costing a lot less than a rail service.

"The infrastructure for marine public transport is ferries and wharves, and we can start construction within six months," he said.

He estimates the project would cost up to $25 million.

"Miramar Peninsula and Seatoun residents will have a fast, reliable commuting option to the city, with easy access to Miramar Wharf by cycling, walking and local public bus services," he said.