The government of New Zealand has announced the financial support to bring forward the development of a new 120,000m2 inland port south of Napier, as part of post-virus pandemic upgrade.
Through its infrastructure funding initiatives, the New Zealand government has approved in principle approximately US$13 million, according to a statement, for the development of Napier Port’s inland port at Whakatu, situated between Napier and Hastings in the centre of Hawke’s Bay’s future industrial hub.
“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,” commented Napier Port chief executive, Todd Dawson.
The Government funding, which is subject to further due diligence and contract negotiations, and combined with a contribution from Napier Port, will fund the first phase of the development including paving, the reopening of the neighbouring rail siding and potentially the construction of a cool store, cross dock or warehouse.
Napier port said in its announcement that the project has the potential to generate an estimated 46 new jobs during the construction phase and as many as 28 permanent new roles once completed.
“The Whakatu Inland Port is a vital piece of infrastructure that will provide Napier Port with capacity to meet the regional growth expected within Hawke’s Bay and beyond,” added Dawson.
