TCDC commended for inclusive development
Published on 20 November 2025
Left to Right: William Goodfellow, Managing Director Explore Group; Jessica Black, Thames-Coromandel District Council; Jenni Ashman, Chair of the Coromandel-Colville Business Association and Mitch King Thames-Coromandel District Council
Thames-Coromandel District Council has earned a Highly Commended Award for Excellence in Inclusive Development and Wellbeing at this year’s Economic Development New Zealand (EDNZ) Awards, celebrating its pivotal role in bringing back the Auckland–Coromandel ferry service.
Hosted at Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter recently, the EDNZ Awards shine a spotlight on the people, councils, iwi and organisations driving real, measurable change through projects that boost local economies, create jobs and strengthen communities.
EDNZ praised the ferry reinstatement as “a great example of purpose-driven collaboration” noting the impact that’s possible when community, council and business move together with a shared goal.
The project began when, after years without a ferry connection, the Coromandel-Colville Business Association mobilised locals, hosting community meetings and gathering insights to push for reinstated services. Backed by our Council support to build the case and coordinate landside logistics, the community effort ultimately encouraged Explore Group to launch a trial Auckland–Coromandel service for this summer.
Mayor Peter Revell applauded the collective achievement, saying: “This recognition is a testimony to the power of shared vision and strong community relationships in driving tangible economic opportunity for the Coromandel.”
Our Council’s Economic Development Team Leader Mitch King says the success belongs to everyone involved.
“It’s been a genuine team effort. Kudos to Jeni Ashman and the Coromandel-Colville Business Association for leading the community advocacy, and a big thank you to William Goodfellow and the Explore Group team, who’ve been fantastic partners throughout.”
The team effort has also included committed local transport operators, Coromandel Taxis, Go Bus and Thames Taxis, with support behind the scenes from many local organisations like the Coromandel Information Centre and Destination Hauraki Coromandel.
More information
Explore Group’s two-hour Auckland to Coromandel ferry service runs from Friday to Sunday, docking at Hannaford’s Wharf. A free shuttle service runs up to Coromandel Town and an ongoing shuttle service to Whitianga can also be booked for an additional cost. Bookings should be made in advance.
Find out more and make a booking here