Auckland Transport (AT) will temporarily close Te Onewa Northcote Point Wharf for up to six weeks from mid-February to pave the way for the future arrival of low-emission vessels.
Following renewal works to the main wharf structure and waiting facilities in January 2021, Te Onewa Northcote Point Wharf will temporarily close so berthing structure improvements can be made following customer and ferry operator feedback.
Improvements will include:
- Installing three additional berthing piles to increase operational flexibility - allowing more vessels to be able to berth in both directions. Currently, vessels can only berth in one direction which slows the process if the vessel is coming from the other direction.
- Replacing the existing fender system with an upgraded fender system. Fenders are used to absorb impact from vessels while berthing at the wharf, resulting in a smoother customer experience for passengers and allowing more options for operational flexibility.
- Installing pile-mounted bollards to remove the fixed lines at this facility to improve ongoing safety and service reliability at the wharf.
“We understand that another closure is not ideal, however the improvements will make it a better experience for passengers and crew alike,” says Gareth Willis, AT’s Ferry Services Manager.
“The work will also ensure the wharf is ready for any future arrival of low-emission vessels,” he says.
The 62-year-old wharf was closed in 2018 after significant structural issues were identified during routine maintenance. A renewal project was completed, and the facility reopened for service in February 2021.
Te Onewa Northcote Point Wharf will close on 14 February and will reopen in late March.
While closed, ferry passengers will need to utilise one of the existing urban bus services. The Birkenhead ferry will continue to operate on its current timetable.
