Port of Auckland boss says ‘ride is over’ for cheap access
It may be ‘back to basics’ for port operations, but it’s not cheap as the country’s second-busiest port looks to secure $1.1b in profits over the next decade.
What’s at stake: The country’s busiest import terminal is set for a major capital works programme after agreeing a deal with its shareholder, the Auckland Council, which saw it take off the table the option of handing over an operating lease for the port business.
Background: Port of Auckland has had a difficult few years, with returns hit by costs related to its failed automation bid, a poor safety record and relations with its workers, and pandemic-induced congestion. It’s getting back to basics with a new management team, headed by former Lyttelton boss Roger Gray.
Main players: Port of Auckland, Roger Gray, Auckland mayor Wayne Brown, Auckland Council, Maritime Union of NZ.
Port of Auckland chief executive Roger Gray says vessel ‘linger time’ at the country’s biggest import terminal is now at less than two days and the city-owned asset is getting on with ramping up its returns.
Most immediately, that translates to a big step up for importers, with peak-time
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What’s at stake: The country’s busiest import terminal is set for a major capital works programme after agreeing a deal with its shareholder, the Auckland Council, which saw it take off the table the option of handing over an operating lease for the port business.
Background: Port of Auckland has had a difficult few years, with returns hit by costs related to its failed automation bid, a poor safety record and relations with its workers, and pandemic-induced congestion. It’s getting back to basics with a new management team, headed by former Lyttelton boss Roger Gray.
Main players: Port of Auckland, Roger Gray, Auckland mayor Wayne Brown, Auckland Council, Maritime Union of NZ.