A ferry traveling from Aotea/Great Barrier Island to Auckland lost both of its life rafts during a rough voyage on Sunday, with swells reaching 2 meters. Passengers reported the incidents, but the crew ensured safety and continued the journey without incident.

• 01The ferry lost its first life raft shortly after departing Tryphena Wharf as it encountered swells in the Hauraki Gulf.
• 02A second life raft also detached about an hour later, prompting a crew member to attempt retrieval before abandoning the effort.
• 03SeaLink, the ferry operator, stated that passenger safety was not compromised and a sister ship accompanied the ferry back to Auckland.
• 04Passengers reported rough conditions, with the trip taking six hours instead of the usual four.
• 05SeaLink is conducting a full investigation into the incidents to prevent future occurrences.

The loss of life rafts raised concerns about passenger safety during ferry operations in the Hauraki Gulf.