To all our valued customers,
We wanted to share an update with you as a regular commuter on our Waiheke ferry services.
As you will be well aware, global events have recently created significant volatility in fuel pricing with close monitoring on ongoing supply - an essential part of keeping our ferries moving.
Since the onset of this disruption, over the last 2 weeks we have experienced a significant increase of 92% in fuel costs to date which could rise in coming days. While we navigate the real impact of this for our business operations, our focus has remained on trying to absorb as much of this impact as possible, while continuing to deliver the dependable service you rely on.
We are currently looking at ways to ensure we run our Waiheke ferry fleet as efficiently as possible, while continuing to provide services to and from the island that you can rely on. Many of you will remember during uncertain times we remained on the water, keeping you connected, supported essential travel, and ensured lifelines stayed open. That same commitment guides us today.
Last Saturday, (21 March), we moved to our usual off-peak timetable, a couple of weeks earlier than planned in response to the developing fuel situation. We’ll continue to review our timetable/services and make necessary changes, with a focus on keeping things as consistent and dependable where possible. We’ll keep you updated regularly as things evolve, so you can stay informed about any changes that may impact your travel. We appreciate your understanding as we navigate this period.
We are also considering whether any further changes are needed in order to ensure that ferry services operate sustainably, including how we can conserve and optimise current fuel supply while maintaining our services to and from the island.
Importantly, we are not planning to increase fares in the short term. Our focus is on absorbing these cost pressures where we can, while making practical adjustments. We believe in being transparent with you, our customers and community because you are part of this journey with us. As fuel prices continue to fluctuate, there may be occasions where we need to adjust our services, timetables and/or fares to keep services running sustainably.
We also want to take a moment to thank our frontline staff and crew whose dedication, resilience and professionalism continue to keep our services running safely every day particularly during these challenging times.
For the latest, real-time service updates, you can visit our website here. Please ensure you check these updates regularly before you travel. Any further changes will be communicated via our normal alert channels.
To keep updated with all the latest information now is a good time to download the Fullers360 mobile app, and turn on your notifications for Waiheke alerts. You can download our app from either the App Store or Google Play.
See you on the water.
Fullers360
