Selling the Ports of Auckland but keeping the land would give Auckland a much-need cash injection and future proof 77 hectares of prime ratepayer-owned land, Auckland mayoral candidate John Tamihere says.
He says a timely, managed exit transition of the Ports of Auckland would open the Waitemata Harbour’s green footprint while providing funds to ease ratepayers costs, add a financial stream back to ratepayers from the leased land for which they would decide its future, and avoid the risk of a costly relocation of the ports.
Tamihere suggests a “Transition Fund’ to support the wharf workforce into new employment.
It’s important to split the business from the land and going to market with the business is the best way to ensure the land never leaves the hands of the Auckland ratepayers, he says.
The new ports owners would lease the land back at a credible commercial rate for up to 25 years and develop an agreed exit strategy, he suggests.
“The ports must move, but exactly where it moves to will be part of on-going discussions,” Tamihere says. “But I have to give clarity and direction so we can all plan for the next 25 years. I have met with major stakeholders, including the Ports of Auckland executives, the Maritime Union and transport groups to brief them on my policy.”
Tamihere says easing ports congestion is also a priority.
“Auckland Transport forums and the major ports carriers agree congestion is a major problem and are identifying ways to work through a self-regulatory system.”
He’s suggesting heavy trucks should be excluded from Auckland’s central business district from 9am to 5pm, possibly out to about a 5km or 10km radius.
Delivery vans and light vehicles would retain access.
If the heavy truck exclusion couldn’t be done a year then a congestion tax would be considered.
Tamihere plans to release a “Track & Road Policy” shortly to address infrastructure projects.
“I’m keen to look for ways for the council, Ports of Auckland, Auckland Transport, NZTA and KiwiRail to work together to get Auckland moving.”
The port’s future is being considered in a government review, due shortly, which includes Tauranga and Marsden Point.
