The historic tramline at Wynyard Quarter has been given a lifeline by the mayor and councillors who voted to reinstate the original 1.5km route until the America's Cup in 2021, then review its future.

Waitematā and Gulf Councillor Mike Lee set up and championed the service.

“The idea of a waterfront heritage tramway caught my imagination and I’ve thrown my support behind it from the start,” says Councillor Lee.

The 15-minute tramway circuit loops around Halsey, Gaunt, Daldy and Jellicoe Streets between the Auckland Viaduct Basin & Westhaven Marina. The historic trams have been off the tracks since August last year.

Panuku Development, which owns the trams, is currently considering the option voted on by councillors.

Councillor Lee says as a place-shaping amenity, the trams are a real point of difference for Wynyard Quarter and he supports those advocating that the tramway is extended across to Te Wero to link with the Maritime Museum, Princes and Queens Wharf and Britomart.

“It’s important that the trams be given a fair go. They’ve been a magic experience for people, you just have to see their faces,” he says.