The working group that will investigate whether Northport is a suitable replacement for the Ports of Auckland is starting to take shape.
Released alongside a raft of announcements from the Government’s Provincial Growth Fund, the Upper North Island Supply Chain Strategy Proposal promises to have the findings of a supply chain review by July 2018, according to a Cabinet paper supplied to Auto Media Group.
An Upper North Island Supply Chain Strategy and a feasibility study to explore options for moving the location of the Ports of Auckland, including giving Northport serious consideration will be in place by December 2018.
“Understanding the drivers of, and uncertainties around, future freight and logistics demand is critical to ensure that New Zealand’s supply chain is fit for purpose in the longer-term”, the document says.
“Moving the Ports of Auckland would have significant implications for other ports, coastal shipping, road freight, and KiwiRail. Given the potential significant flow-on effects, an investigation could usefully consider the Ports of Auckland and Northport as part of an assessment of the freight and logistics system in the Upper North Island.”
The review will consider national and regional economic development outcomes and transport outcomes.
Members of the working group will have a mix of economics and business development, regional development, Māori development, transport and logistics and infrastructure management, investment and planning experience.
The working group considering moving the Ports of Auckland’s operations, with serious consideration being given to Northport, was put in place as part of New Zealand First’s coalition agreement with Labour.
