Demolition of Picton ferry terminal set for June
The demolition of the Picton ferry terminal will clear the site for future port operations
The landscape of Picton's port waterfront is about to change, with the demolition of the Picton ferry terminal, scheduled to start in mid-June.
The building's demolition follows the cancellation of the iReX project, which had originally made provision for the terminal’s replacement.
Constructed in the 1960s to support the passenger and freight service for New Zealand's first rail-enabled ferry, Aramoana, the terminal building has seen the passage of millions of travellers between the North and South islands during its lifetime, Port Marlborough CEO Rhys Welbourn said.
“Despite changes in the area, inter-island ferries will continue to operate from their usual berths, ensuring minimal disruption to passengers,” he said.
A new temporary terminal building and passenger walkway has been established for the Interislander to handle passenger and luggage services in the medium term and KiwiRail has reported that it is working well since it opened in June 2023. StraitNZ Bluebridge services remain unaffected.
In recent years the building has not been maintained to usual high standards, due to its anticipated demolition under the iReX project.
“The demolition of the terminal building will now clear the site for future port operations and Port Marlborough continues to work closely with government agencies on the next steps for development. The works are being managed carefully to ensure continued service efficiency and safety for our busy port,” Mr Welbourne said.
