An application for the proposed Northland Shipyard and Dry Dock at Marsden Point has been lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority under the Fast-Track Approvals Act.
The proposed shipyard and marine maintenance facility would provide a New Zealand option for servicing and repairing large vessels, including naval ships and inter-island ferries.
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says the project would reduce New Zealand’s reliance on dry docks in Australia and Asia.
“This project will be a game-changer for New Zealand’s maritime sector, providing a domestic option to maintain, service, and repair large vessels right here at home,” Jones says.
“It will reduce reliance on overseas dry docks in Australia and Asia, save owners considerable transit costs, improve vessel availability, and reduce associated emissions.”
The facility is proposed next to the western edge of Northport’s existing commercial area within Whangārei Harbour.
Modelling indicates construction and operation could add $1.05 billion to the economy over 38 years.
An average of around 1700 jobs a year is estimated during the three-year construction phase, with around 450 jobs during operation.
“Enabling more marine maintenance activity to be done in New Zealand will support the domestic economy and help deepen our skills and supplier base – a win-win for the Northland region and the whole country,” Jones says.
Jones says Marsden Point is well suited to the facility because of its deep-water access, proximity to an established commercial port and existing marine services expertise.
Progressing the Northland Shipyard and Dry Dock forms part of the National-New Zealand First coalition agreement.
The project is listed under the Fast-Track Approvals Act, which provides an accelerated consenting pathway for infrastructure and development projects with significant regional or national benefits.
