Thames-Coromandel District Council is advising Whitianga Ferry users the service will only operate on the hour between 9am and 4pm next Monday.

The reduced service on November 7 is due to additional work that's needed to be carried out on the new floating pontoon at Ferry Landing which was replaced by council contractors in October.

'We apologise to the public for the change in the ferry schedule, which will be on the Monday,” says council.

'The usual run will continue up until 9am and after 4pm to accommodate school students.”

The additional work being carried on Monday involves allowing for better floatation at the edge of the pontoon for when the ferry docks, further pile strengthening, and repositioning of fenders on the pontoon.

Last month the 9m concrete floating pontoon was replaced following a conditions assessment report which recommended it be replaced due to wear and tear and deterioration.

The old pontoon and its piles were removed by barge and the new piles drilled in, with the new pontoon barged into position and installed on the new piles afterwards.

Ferry crossings between 9am and 4pm on Monday, November 7 will be at the following times:

• 10am
• 11 am
• 12pm
• 1pm
• 2pm
• 3:15pm