Today Eastland Port have submitted their Twin Berth Stage Two application with the Gisborne District Council.
Eastland Port Infrastructure Manager Marty Bayley said, “This is a significant milestone for Eastland Port and Tairāwhiti, and one we are very proud to present.”
The application will cover the extension of wharf 8; one hectare of reclamation; dredging the channel and harbour; and rebuilding the outer breakwater.
It will also include upgrading the last of the port’s log yards with its award-winning stormwater treatment system.
Mr Bayley said, “Over the last five years we have engaged with hapū and iwi, and the community to ensure what is important to them is considered and protected.
“We have worked with many different experts, businesses, and our customers to develop fit for purpose plans that will meet the needs of Tairāwhiti and future proof the Port for other trade opportunities.
“Collectively, we’ve developed a balanced solution that considers the integrity of historical and cultural sites around the port and the local environment, while at the same time supporting the community and economy.”
Eastland Group Chief Operating Officer Regional Infrastructure Andrew Gaddum said, “Twin Berth Stage Two is pivotal to the growth of Tairāwhiti – we need to upgrade the infrastructure and prepare the port to ensure we can keep ahead of the demand of projected volumes of wood products, the growing horticulture sector, cruise ships and enable containerisation.”
When completed, two ships between 185 and 200 metres long will be able to safely berth at the same time. These will include logging ships, produce vessels, wood chip ships, coastal container vessels and smaller cruise liners.
Mr Gaddum said, “Eastland Port is an extremely important facility for Tairāwhiti with over 25% and $626m of the region’s economy directly dependent on the Port to get its export products to the world.
“Through the proposal we see this increasing to over 40% through increased capacity and capability, and enabling coastal container trade from Tairāwhiti.
“The project will help unlock long term growth in Tairāwhiti and bring far-reaching benefits to our region.”
Once the application has been processed and accepted by the Gisborne District Council, it will be publicly notified for a period 30 working days so people can make a submission on the proposal during this time.
ENDS
The image below illustrates the Twin Berth Project. Stage One (highlighted in green) was approved in November 2020 and has begun with the Wharf 7 Rebuild. Stage Two (highlighted in yellow) and the subject of this consent consists of the following components:
- the extension of the existing Wharf 8 and adjacent reclamation of the seafloor;
- upgrading of the existing breakwater;
- capital and maintenance dredging to deepen the turning basin and channels to accommodate larger vessel loads;
- upgrades to the stormwater collection and treatment facilities across the Southern Log Yard; and
- replacement of the existing Port coastal occupation permit that is due to expire in 2026.
