Kelsian expands into New Zealand with Auckland ferry services contract win

A joint bid led by Kelsian Group’s (Kelsian) Australian marine division, SeaLink, and established Auckland-based ferry operator Belaire Ferries, has been selected by Auckland Transport to operate Auckland's Western Package ferry services following a competitive tender process.

The new Auckland Transport ferry services contracts are scheduled to commence with six vessels on 1 July 2027 and have an initial term of seven years, with an option to extend for a further two years.

Kelsian will acquire Belaire Ferries and as part of the contract commitments, Kelsian has undertaken to procure five new vessels costing approximately A$31 million for the network during the contract term.

The Western Package forms part of Auckland's contracted ferry network, which carries around six million passenger journeys annually, connecting Auckland's city centre with key North Shore and north-western communities, including Bayswater, Birkenhead, Te Onewa / Northcote Point, West Harbour and Rakino Island.

Kelsian Group Chief Executive Officer Graeme Legh said the contract reflected Kelsian's capability as a leading global multi-modal transport operator and represented an important step in the company's growth strategy.

"We are delighted to have been selected by Auckland Transport, in partnership with Belaire Ferries, to operate Auckland's Western Package ferry services," Mr Legh said.

"This new long-term package of contracts, together with the acquisition of Belaire Ferries, establishes a strategically important platform for expansion and positions Kelsian to pursue further growth opportunities in the New Zealand market.

"Our planned procurement of five new vessels demonstrates our long-term commitment to Auckland and will help enhance the passenger experience and improve the services for the local communities that rely on these essential services every day."

Adam Tallentire, Founder and Managing Director of Belaire Ferries said, "We are pleased to be partnering with Kelsian Group on this important contract and look forward to combining our local knowledge with their extensive marine transport expertise to support the future of Auckland's ferry network.

"This is a great outcome for Auckland, with larger vessels, increased capacity, new ferries and ongoing investment that will improve services for the communities that rely on them every day. Together, we're excited to build on the strong foundations already in place and help take the network to the next level."

Neil Wilkins, Auckland Transport Head of Commercial and Contract Management said, "Auckland's ferry services are an important part of our public transport network, and we look forward to working with Kelsian and Belaire Ferries to continue delivering safe, reliable and customer-focused services for Aucklanders."

For more information, visit:

• SeaLink Marine & Tourism (Kelsian Group): www.sealink.com.au
• Belaire Ferries: https://www.belaire.co.nz/
• Auckland Transport: https://at.govt.nz/