Napier Port will build a multi-purpose 350m wharf with HEB Construction, enabling the port’s ability to handle bigger and more ships.
The wharf, called 6 Wharf, will begin being built during the first quarter of 2020 calendar year. HEB will be on-port this month to establish the construction site, and order and deliver materials.
Napier Port signed the contract with HEB on November 8. Chief executive Todd Dawson says the wharf should be complete and ready to receive its first ship in late 2022, if there is no significant weather delays or other unforeseen circumstances.
“Planning for this project started over four years ago so it’s a huge milestone to get to this point. 6 Wharf is a critical piece of infrastructure that will help support growth for our customers and Hawke’s Bay’s economy for many years to come,” Dawson says.
6 Wharf will help increase efficiency, easing congestion and reducing secondary vessel movements by around 100 movements a year.
The port has produced practice management plans in partnership with stakeholders, including Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, mana whenua and the fishing community, to ensure it protects the environment and cultural values during the project.
A construction management plan is currently underway with HEB.
The project is estimated to cost $173-$190m, excluding capitalised interest and overheads.
