Elderly Driver Crashes 4WD into Waiheke Island Ferry Terminal

Dramatic video footage has surfaced showing an elderly woman driving a 4WD vehicle crashing through a glass bus shelter at the Matiatia Ferry Terminal on Waiheke Island, subsequently plunging into the water. The incident occurred on Wednesday, March 15, 2024, at the main passenger ferry terminal located on Ocean View Road.

According to Police Sergeant Ray Matthews, the driver had been consuming alcohol prior to the accident. The footage not only captures the moment of impact but also shows the retrieval operation of the submerged vehicle. Images circulated online depict the 4WD partially submerged, along with debris from the crash, including mangled bicycles and a damaged railing.

The chilling incident has raised concerns about safety measures at the ferry terminal. Witnesses reported hearing a loud crash before seeing the vehicle veer off the wharf into the water. Emergency services responded quickly, working to recover the vehicle and ensure no one else was injured during the incident.

The crash has ignited discussions about the need for enhanced safety protocols in busy areas where pedestrians and vehicles interact closely. Local authorities are expected to review the terminal’s security measures, especially regarding alcohol consumption and driving regulations for elderly residents.

As investigations continue, officials have not yet released additional details about any potential charges against the driver. The community remains shaken by the event, with many expressing relief that no fatalities occurred. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.