Wellington’s CentrePort contributes more than $2.5 billion to central New Zealand GDP, according to an independent report by Berl. But the company’s chief executive Derek Nind says by not deepening the shipping channel for larger container vessels, jobs and growth could be affected by higher inland freight costs.
The report reveals that CentrePort, its customers, and service providers supported more than 21,350 full-time equivalents (FTE) jobs and contributed more than $2.5 billion in GDP for the central region in 2015, up from $2 billion in 2009.
Nind says the report highlighted the interdependence between the port company and businesses in the hinterland.
“We’re very aware of the important economic connection between Wellington and the provinces, and this independent report highlights the significance of that relationship,” says Nind.
“It’s critical that we protect and grow this relationship by building the infrastructure that our customers need to compete internationally,” he says
“That’s why we’re committing to deepening the shipping channel in Wellington harbour to attract bigger container ships,” says Nind.
“Without this initiative, there could be an increase in inland transport costs, which could affect jobs and growth in the central region,” he says.
Nind says the port was working closely with stakeholders and customers to explain its plans to sustain growth in the area
“We’ve been steadily investing in critical infrastructures such as cranes and straddle carriers, and developing strategic partnerships and seamless rail connections from the hinterland to our port to maximise the gains for shareholders and customers, reflecting in the findings of the Berl report,” he says.
