​March container numbers beat record only set in October 2013

Container numbers continue their relentless growth, with a new record high at Ports of Auckland in March. The container terminal handled 54,427 containers (79,492 TEU), 10,305 (16,771 TEU) more than the same month in 2013. This breaks the previous record of 54,049 set last October.

Ports of Auckland Chief Executive Tony Gibson said that “breaking the monthly record in March is unusual; normally the pre-Christmas period is the busiest. Solid import volumes plus a lift in exports gave March a real boost.” Bulk, break-bulk and car volumes are also up.

The port’s restructuring, started in 2011, has boosted productivity making it easier to handle the increased volumes. “But there have been challenges,” said Mr Gibson. “I’d like to thank our customers, who we’ve worked with closely to deliver the best outcome,” said Mr Gibson.

The rising volumes look set to become the norm, so the port is gearing up for growth:

• There has been renewed focus on using rail and Wiri Inland Port to reduce pressure on roads, with rail use up over 50% this financial year.
  
• 1.1 hectares of new paving has just been completed and will soon accommodate a larger truck grid and more container ground slots.
  
•  A new tug and six new straddles will arrive soon and a new crane will be ordered later this year.
  
•  Work on a 50m extension of Fergusson wharf will begin later this year.
  

ENDS

For further information contact: 

Matt Ball
Head of Communications
P: 09 348 5262
M: 021 495 645
E: [email protected]

After Hours Media Contact Number (5.30 pm – 8.00 am): 09 348 5040​