Projected regional diesel growth of more than 10% in the next five years, and increased air traffic into Queenstown Airport prompted BP to invest more in its South Island infrastructure.
BP is officially launching two new storage tanks at its Dunedin terminal.
The multi-million dollar tank expansion will enable the storage and distribution of an additional 2 million litres of jet fuel and 2 million litres of diesel to the region.
Currently, a significant proportion of Jet fuel moves by tanker from Christchurch to Queenstown Airport, so the improved storage at Dunedin terminal is expected to reduce transportation risk by cutting trucking journeys in half.
National Terminals and Logistics Manager Haley Mahoney says BP recognised the need to invest more heavily in its south island infrastructure.
“This fuel hub is of vital importance to support the region’s growth and ensure continuity of supply and distribution to our customers,” she says.
“Reducing driver hours and the risks associated with driver fatigue is another positive outcome of this decision,” says Mahoney.
Queenstown Airport General Manager of Operations Mike Clay says booming visitor numbers had significantly increased air movements through Queenstown, which has put pressure on supply logistics to the airport.
“The tripling of jet fuel volume at the Dunedin terminal will help to relieve that pressure and will go a long way to ensuring we can continue to meet the increasing demand,” says Clay.
