New Zealand will build a new inland port south of the Port of Napier as part of a national post-COVID-19 infrastructure programme
In a statement, the Port of Napier welcomed the plans to build the 12 hectare Whakatu Inland Port , saying it has the potential to generate jobs in the construction process and in the long term.
Napier Port Chief Executive Todd Dawson described it as “a vital piece of infrastructure that will provide Napier Port with capacity to meet the regional growth expected within Hawke’s Bay and beyond”.
“It is strategically located within the Whakatu Industrial zone, in the heart of the Hawke’s Bay pipfruit industry, with direct rail and road connections to Napier Port and the lower North Island,” Dawson continued.
“It will provide efficiencies for exporters with reduced trucking distances and greater flexibility in container storage for both exports and imports.
“It will also consolidate operations pivotal to local supply chains in one location and avoid unnecessary and inefficient duplication of facilities.
“In short, the Government’s funding of this project has the potential to accelerate growth in the region for the benefit of all. Napier Port see this as a great initiative and a real boost to the economic development of Hawke’s Bay and the lower North Island in the wake of the ongoing impacts of COVID19.
“We are looking forward to getting started on this project and thank the Government for its support.”
The New Zealand government plans to spend approximately $461.4 million (NZ$708 million) on upgrading its transportation, with other sectors receiving investment being urban development and sustainability.
