Ferry trips across the Waitematā Harbour will soon be a lot quieter - and cleaner.
The current diesel fleet accounts for 20 percent of Auckland's transport emissions, despite only carrying 6 percent of passengers.
But that's set to change with Auckland's first electric ferries taking shape.
Two have been under construction for the past 18 months - designed by EV Maritime.
"The fastest car charger in New Zealand at the moment is around about 300 kilowatts. The chargers that Auckland Transport are putting in for the ferries are about 10 times that capacity," EV Maritime chief executive Michael Eaglen said.
"Vector, who's the electricity distributor here in Auckland, has been supportive of the programme, helping us understand the best way to connect at the different ferry terminals," said Nathan Cammock, Auckland Transport's low-emission ferry programme director.
Wellington led the way, launching the Southern Hemisphere's first electric ferry in 2022.
But Auckland Transport's vessels will be bigger - able to carry up to 200 passengers.
The first is set to hit the waves for testing in mid-2024 before passenger trips the following year.
It will be able to travel about 40km, which is more than enough for a return trip from Auckland to Hobsonville. It'll also be able to travel at a speed similar to diesel ferries.
The ferries are being built with a $27 million contribution from the Government.
"Electric ferries are much more expensive to buy but much less expensive to operate, compared with an equivalent diesel boat," Eaglen said.
Auckland Transport's current diesel fleet uses about 13 million litres of fossil fuels each year.
So, in addition to the electric ferries, four existing vessels are being refitted with more fuel-efficient engines.
"Around 20 percent of our transport emissions in Auckland come from the ferries and the ferries carry about 6 percent of the passengers, so ferry emissions are over-represented," Cammock said.
The electric ferries are also designed to be more accessible for Auckland commuters to encourage fewer cars.
"You'll see with these vessels that we're bringing bicycles inside the main cabin, out of the salt air, giving them proper racks," said Eaglen.
The aim is to have an entirely electric fleet of passenger ferries in Auckland by 2030.
