Global transport and logistics giant Maersk is establishing a major new cold storage facility at Ruakura Superhub.
It has signed an agreement with project developer Tainui Group Holdings (TGH) for the long-term ground lease of 4.5 hectares in the logistics hub adjacent to the Ruakura Inland Port. It’s expected to start operation in late 2023.
The 45,000 square-meter purpose-built coldstore facility will feature a Greenstar 5 sustainability rating.
It will also include advanced energy management, an environmentally friendly CO2 cooling plant, solar energy, rainwater harvesting and a low carbon policy for the construction.
Once complete, it will have more than 16,000 square meters of fully convertible temperature-controlled space with temperatures ranging from -25°C to 15°C. It will be able to provide storage for more than 21,000 pallets of cold chain products.
By integrating the coldstore with the depot and intermodal connections, it will provide better logistics solutions for both import and export customers.
Maersk Oceania managing director Henrik Jensen says the cold storage facility will cater for both national and international supply chains.
“From dairy and meat to seafood and fruits, the primary industry sector is key to drive the development of New Zealand’s economy.
“We are pleased to offer our customers innovative solutions and access to our integrated global network, through which we can contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth and bring new opportunities to the communities we are part of.
“We firmly believe it will enable us to be flexible and agile in our operations to ensure that we can match customers’ needs with seasonal demand,” Jensen says.
Maersk Oceania reefer head Tony Mildon says there has been “significant growing demand from exporters, importers and local processors who rely on temperature-controlled storage in the region”.
“With the new facility in place and its close integration with Maersk’s logistics solutions, we will offer more transparency and visibility of refrigerated cargoes and help customers build more efficient and resilient supply chains,” Mildon says.
TGH chair and Te Arataura member Hinerangi Raumati-Tu’ua welcomed Maersk to the freight hub.
“Recent history shows the need for resilient supply chains and we’re delighted that Maersk has chosen to develop its new facility at Ruakura Superhub,” Raumati-Tu’ua says.
“When this new facility opens in late 2023 it will help ensure the best possible local and global connections for New Zealand exporters and importers. Maersk has also expressed an intention to work with us to create meaningful employment opportunities for members of our iwi,” she says.
TGH chief executive Chris Joblin says it is gratifying to see the vision for Ruakura as a logistics and distribution hub coming to life.
“As a truly global player, Maersk brings the serious scale and global transport connections which will confirm the role of Ruakura Superhub as a key node for New Zealand’s supply chain.
“Their presence will have many synergies for the other significant logistics and distribution businesses who have either confirmed a move to the Ruakura Superhub or are still planning to do so,” he says.
Previously confirmed partners and tenants at Ruakura Superhub include the Port of Tauranga (in a joint venture to develop the inland port), PBT Express Freight Network (new regional distribution centre), Waitomo Group (flagship service centre including a fuel stop with alternative energy options) and Big Chill.
The shift of cargoes from road and on to rail is projected to take 65,000 truck journeys off roads when the Ruakura Inland Port is fully established.
Ruakura includes provision for future solar generation and electricity microgrids. The precinct includes a 10-hectare wetland and more than one million native plants in the 92-hectare first stage of the 490-hectare development.
Ruakura Superhub, which is recognised by the New Zealand Government as a project of national significance, is one of the country’s largest developments. It spans logistics, industrial, retail and residential development areas.
Located strategically for New Zealand’s supply chain, it will be anchored by a 30-hectare inland port, with the first 17-hectares of this also set for an official opening as part of Stage 1 in the third quarter of this year. The inland port will link to the Ports of Tauranga and Auckland, allowing the facility to better service both the export regions and the key import markets in the North Island.
The facility also has easy access to the road network between Hamilton and Auckland next to the new SH1 dual carriage way.
