Great Barrier Island’s Tryphena Wharf to close amid collapse risk; all sailings redirected

The structural integrity of Tryphena Wharf is in critical condition, with SeaLink warning of a “risk of collapse” should a ship dock.

The alarming assessment has prompted the immediate and indefinite diversion of all ferry services to alternative ports, Port Fitzroy and Whangaparapara wharf, effective immediately.

The wharf’s support piles are reportedly compromised, a situation severe enough to prompt the response, according to SeaLink.

“The urgency of this has come as a surprise to us,” the company said in a statement.

Auckland Transport (AT), however, said it had not closed the wharf and its engineers had assessed it as safe to use “under normal conditions”.

Joshua Hyland, Delivery Manager Public Transport Facilities, said AT was planning works at wharf facilities on the island and was working with Sealink to allow its service to operate during these upgrades.

“SeaLink have made the independent decision to stop services to Tryphena Wharf based on their own risk assessment,” Hyland said.

“Though this does not align with AT’s advice, we acknowledge SeaLink’s decision and will continue to work with them to minimise disruption for their customers where possible.

“SeaLink’s decision to divert services from Tryphena Wharf does provide an opportunity to expedite the project and reduce the overall duration of works and period of disruption.

“We will be keeping the Local Board and the community informed on this.”

Sealink’s changes will affect travel plans for the busy Easter weekend ahead. A revised timetable has been released, indicating where scheduled services will dock.

SeaLink says Auckland Transport, which maintains and operates the wharf, is working in conjunction with local operators to minimise the impact on passengers and freight services.

The emergency work will see the ferry diversions in effect through to June 30, with the possibility of an extension.

With the wharf out of action, freight heading to Tryphena, the island’s largest settlement, will need to be hauled by truck from Whangaparapara, 20km away, or take the hour-long trek from Port Fitzroy in the north.

Passengers without vehicles should use the “People and Post” shuttle service, reachable at 0800 426 832, or liaise with their rental car operator.

The revised sailing schedule is as follows:

• March 26, Tuesday: 7.30am from Hamer St/Viaduct Quarter to 2.30pm at Fitzroy
• March 27, Wednesday: 7.30am to 2pm at Fitzroy
• March 28, Thursday: 7.30am to 2.30pm at Fitzroy
• March 29, Friday: 5.30am to 12pm at Whangaparapara
• March, 30 Saturday: 5.30am to 12pm at Whangaparapara
• 31st March, Sunday: 7:00 am to 2:00 pm at Whangaparapara
• 1st April, Monday: 7:00 am to 2:00 pm at Whangaparapara
• 2nd April, Tuesday: 7:30 am to 2:30 pm at Whangaparapara

This article was previously published on AoteaGBI.News