Consent to rebuild wharf 6 and 7 and reshape the slipway is confirmation we’re doing the right thing future proofing the port for forestry, coastal shipping and international trade, says Eastland Port general manager Andrew Gaddum.
“We’re unlocking the port’s potential so it’s a source of opportunity for this district and this is one of the first steps.”
Eastland Port has been granted consent to rebuild wharves 6 and 7. These wharves are over 60-years old and no longer up to task.
Originally built for fishing boats, wharf 6 will be used to berth Eastland Port tug boats, and in the future, help tie up 200m long log vessels off wharf 7. Meanwhile, wharf 7 will be rebuilt stronger to meet the demands of increasing vessel weights.
Eastland Port has also been granted consent to reshape the slipway. The slipway needs to be made smaller so we can safely manoeuvre two 200m long vessels in port at once, says Mr Gaddum.
Both consent applications are part of a larger project known as the twin berth development allowing two 200m long ships to be parked in port at the same time.
“The consent process was robust and we have come out with a workable solution.”
“The city’s port is the essential last step in a forestry boom that’s helping our district flourish. It is literally the last port of call for an industry that’s employing thousands of people and generating income and business across the region. The nature of a port is that it must change and respond to the needs of regional industry and so that’s what we are doing.”
Mr Gaddum says he’s proud to be overseeing port growth at a time when environmental issues are so closely monitored as per the consent conditions.
“The port and our staff are focused on operating within an environment everyone can be proud of.”
Eastland Port looks forward to its continuing relationship with iwi safeguarding the area’s cultural heritage and ecosystems in and around the port.