Nelson Weekly Locally Owned and Operated
Wednesday 28 December 2022
ISSUE
HOLIDAY SUMMER
Splash into 2023 Harper, Jackson, Cory and Kayden Trusler play in the water at Tāhunanui Beach. Tāhunanui will be a hive of activity this summer with events including the Lions Summer Fair and Beach Break featuring Shapeshifter and Kora. Photo: Lisa Trusler.
Nelson Ferry: ‘we can’t afford to lose it’ TRACY ALLAN Haulashore Island, the lighthouse, and the boulder bank may become less accessible for many if the ferry that provides transport to the iconic Nelson locations is sold to buyers up north. The owner of WAKA-TO-N-FRO Nelson Ferry is now looking out-
side of the region to sell up after getting no interest in the business which has been up for sale for over two years. Bruce Robertson said he has reached out to local iwi, and the council but he still hasn’t found someone to buy the business locally. With a couple of leads in the
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
North Island for the boat alone, Bruce says he is not desperate, but he would like the business to be sold to someone in the region. “I’d probably say it would be a bit sad for Nelson if it goes,” he says on the eve of his 70th birthday. Bruce has owned the business for 15 years, but is ready to move on and live a more relaxed lifestyle.
The Nelson Ferry operates on a flexible schedule and although the business is weather-dependent Bruce says it’s a great job because it’s not 40 hours per week. “Covid-19 didn’t hurt the business, if anything it is getting busier.” Bruce has spotted all sorts of wonderful creatures in the har-
bour including dolphins and blue penguins and he has enjoyed watching the bird colony at the cut grow to now almost 200-300 chicks. He says the service has been utilised by school groups, girl guides, and Nelson City Council.
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