Do passengers on a commercial ferry or charter have any legal protection?

Commercial operators are held to high standards. Under the Maritime Transport Act 1994, and the Maritime Operator Safety System, commercial vessel operators must have a safe operating plan, hold an appropriate maritime document and meet standards for vessel condition, crew qualifications and safety equipment, and they are audited by Maritime New Zealand. The Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 also applies. As a consumer, you also have rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 and the Fair Trading Act 1986, including that services must be provided with reasonable care and skill and that operators must not mislead you. If a trip is cancelled for safety reasons, you may still be entitled to a refund or a rebooking. Complain to the operator, and to Maritime New Zealand if safety issues arose.