The ferry broke down on Thursday morning and was not operational for several hours.

Council says that in order to conduct the required repairs there will be no ferry service between 9pm and midnight on Thursday.

During this time, vehicle access to the north shore will be via highway.

Thursday morning’s breakdown was linked to a hydraulic issue.

Interim measures included a Birdon Marine’s shipyard-provided tug which powered the ferry and two other smaller craft used to ensure school buses were met.

The break-down was compounded by the Hibbard ferry’s unavailability due to an six-week scheduled maintenance and upgrade.

Ferry service contractor Will Eades said the break-down was unfortunate and praised residents for their patience.

“This is a mechanical issue only and no reflection on the ferry operators,” he said.

“I grew up over here and while, as a kid, it was a bit exciting when this kind of thing happened, when you are working it can be a concern.

“But we are working on the issue and it will be rectified.”

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council said the Birdon Marine tug commenced pushing the ferry across the river with its first load of vehicles and passengers at just 9am.

“It is operating at a slow pace whilst the mechanical fault is being assessed,” a council spokesperson said.

“It is still unclear how long that situation will take to rectify and we will provide updates through the morning.”