Terminal reorganisation confirmed

Ports of Auckland has confirmed that it will proceed with a major reorganisation of its container terminals.

From July the port will berth the majority of visiting container ships at its newly expanded Fergusson terminal, and base all stevedoring staff there.

Managing Director Jens Madsen said the changes would streamline port operations.

“This is about steering the company through the current economic downturn, using our berths, land, equipment and labour as efficiently as possible, reducing cost and further lifting productivity,” Mr Madsen said.

Consultation begins next week

Ports of Auckland will begin a planned period of consultation with union officials and staff next week, following the company’s decision to proceed with a major reorganisation of its container terminals.

The six week consultation period will provide a further opportunity to discuss the redundancy situation, including how mechanisms for voluntary severance, internal transfers, redeployment and retraining may be implemented.

The reorganisation will mean an overall reduction in staff numbers of 28, down from the 30 originally proposed.

“We remain hopeful that the redundancies required can be achieved voluntarily,” said Mr Madsen.

Mr Madsen emphasised that no strike notices had been received.

“We are disappointed by the union’s recent statements and threats of industrial action,” he said.

“Their suggestion to blacklist and refuse to work ships in New Zealand that have called Auckland would be illegal.”

The Port's General Wharves, Port of Onehunga and Marine Services are not directly affected by the reorganisation or proposed union action.

For more information, please contact:
Craig Sain, General Manager Sales, Marketing and Logistics, by email or on +64 9 309 1263
Richard Potton, Manager Sales, Marketing & Product Development, by email or on +64 9 309 1249

Port wins international cruise award

Ports of Auckland has won an international cruise industry award for the most improved port facilities.

“This award is a credit to the efficient and hard working team at Ports of Auckland,” said General Manager Port Services Wayne Mills.

Mr Mills said navigating the large ships through the Rangitoto Channel, bringing them alongside Princes or Queens Wharf and then processing thousands of passengers in a short timeframe was a massive logistical exercise.

“For many cruise visitors their entire New Zealand experience starts at the port. We aim to make their visit a special and memorable one – for the right reasons.”

No other New Zealand ports or cities featured in the awards.

Read more