Aucklanders will once again have the option to take day trips to Hauraki Gulf conservation islands this week as Fullers360 sailings are resuming after a nearly three month break amid the COVID-19 Delta outbreak.
As a result of Auckland's move to step 2 of alert level 3, Fullers360 is working in partnership with the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Rotoroa Island Trust to welcome customers back to Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi and Rotoroa Island.
Fullers360 CEO Mike Horne says the business is thrilled to resume sailings to and from Auckland's conversation islands.
"The DOC protected islands are teeming with native wildlife for Aucklanders to spot on their next day trip. We're proud of the role we have in providing essential services for Aucklanders, and now being able to reopen island destinations for safe recreational travel," Horne says.
DOC Operations Manager Kat Lane says the department is delighted to support the reopening of the islands where staff have been living and working, keeping them pest-free and protecting the native and endangered species.
"We welcome and encourage Aucklanders to experience the beautiful conservation we have right on our doorstep while respecting the rules of no dogs and checking and cleaning gear when coming on and off the island," Lane says.
Horne says sailings will be operating with reduced capacity to enable physical distancing onboard.
Passengers must follow Government guidelines for travelling on public transport including wearing a face covering onboard and inside ferry terminals and scanning in using the NZ COVID Tracer app.
Fullers360 sailings to Rangitoto, Tiritiri Matangi and Rotoroa Island restart on Friday, November 12.
