Hopes passenger ferry may soon return to harbour

It may be high and dry for now, but the former passenger ferry Elsie Evans could make a return to Otago Harbour as early as next year, funding permitting.

More than 300 people attended an open day yesterday to check the restoration progress of 108-year-old Elsie Evans.

Otago Harbour Ferry Incorporated chairman Shem Sutherland said interest was building in the vessel.

It last ferried people across Otago Harbour more than five decades ago.

To date, boat builders had spent more than 2500 hours on the restoration and the engine should be installed later this year.

The trust had raised more than $350,000, and was seeking a further $65,000 to relaunch the ferry.

It could be back on Otago Harbour as early as next year, he said.

Mr Sutherland said the open day raised $1500 and helped generate interest in the project.