Matiatia Ferry Terminal Toilet Extension Project for Waiheke Island

Waiheke is the second largest and most populated Island in Auckland�s Hauraki Gulf with an estimated population of 9250 (Waiheke Local Board Annual Report 2017/2018). In recent years Waiheke has become popular with tourists as an island escape due to its location 40 minutes via ferry from Downtown Auckland.

The Matiatia Ferry terminal is located on the western side of Waiheke Island and is the gateway for residents and visitors arriving and departing Waiheke. The existing Matiatia ferry terminal was last upgraded in 2004.

The $3 million upgrade improved shelter facilities and comfort for passengers arriving and departing the island introducing �large covered waiting areas, upgraded ticket office, public toilets, coastguard room, first aid room and freight handling facilities� (Scoop Regional Magazine article 23 March 2004). Annual passenger numbers to/from Waiheke when the ferry terminal was upgraded in 2004 are unknown.

Passenger numbers to/from Waiheke in FY 2018/2019 were 2.35 million (Fullers Fact Sheet June 2019). With this throughput, in particular during the summer months when peak usage occurs, the existing toilet facilities cannot provide an acceptable level of service. Passengers arriving and departing the terminal are having to endure significant wait times to use the toilets.

Auckland Council research unit forecasted that Waiheke Island would experience a 35% increase in visitors between 2017 and 2022 (Auckland Transport �New Network for Waiheke� article). This increase is expected to further increase demand and reduce the level of service of the existing Matiatia Ferry Terminal toilet facilities.

The Matiatia Wharf Toilet Extention is to provide toilet facilities that satisfy the public needs for all ferry users to and from the island.