Ferry operator Fullers said it will transition to its busier summer timetable 15 crews or 60 staff short of the number required for its "optimal" summer timetable of 122 sailings per week. A Fullers spokesperson said the Waiheke service will still met the minimum. Those who live on Waiheke and commute to the CBD will be prioritised under Fullers 'Residents Lane' initiative. "We are working hard to resolve this including launching a domestic and international recruitment campaign, increasing pay for our employees, investing in training and development and partnering with competitors to sustain our summer timetable." Fullers' skills shortage includes a requirement for skilled people with specific marinequalifications, as set out by Maritime New Zealand, which take many months/years to achieve from an entry level position, Horne said.

Source: New Zealand Herald October 07, 2022 10:19 UTC