Bike boat seeks funding

The Matakana based business Hauraki Express is seeking support from government and Auckland Council to transport cyclists across Auckland’s waterways using purpose-built ferries.

At a Transport and Infrastructure committee meeting on April 20, Hauraki Express presented its vision to transport 1800 cyclists around Auckland daily.

Sales and service manager George Bourke said the ferries would be made with recyclable aluminium, be powered with electrical outboards and have capacity for 24 cyclists.

“Our concept is to use existing infrastructure operating between boat ramps, wharves and jetties where possible, with the goal of connecting cycle lanes,” Bourke said.

“The goal is to get people across the harbour as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

He said they were planning to service Waiheke, as well with primary pick up points being Bayswater, Birkenhead, Stanley Bay, West Haven, Hobsonville and Half Moon Bay.

Cr Wayne Walker asked when the company might be able to begin operations.

“How quickly could you put this in place given that there is a very quick turnaround, and you can build the boats yourselves?” Walker asked.

Hauraki Express general manager Stuart Thomas said Legacy Boats in Whakatāne would be able to have the first of six boats finished by midway through next year.

The company is asking council and the government for $2.65 million over four years to support the operation, with $750,000 sought in the 2024/25 year.

Cr Richard Hills asked what response the company had received from government so far.

“This is really exciting, it would be good to just get it done – have you talked to the minister?” Hills asked. He noted that Michael Wood, who is both the Minister for Transport and the Minister for Auckland, had expressed interest in funding these kinds of projects.

Hauraki Express director Peter Bourke said there had been no response from government so far.

“We have approached the minister twice,” he said.

Auckland Transport and Waka Kotahi have been asked to report back to the committee on the proposal.