NAPIER Port and Port Otago have announced the formation of a joint venture to build and purchase a trailing suction hopper dredge from Dutch shipbuilders Damen Shipyards.
Worth NZ$36 million, the state-of-the-art dredge is intended to protect the two ports’ shipping channels and harbour access for future generations.
The partnership builds on the existing collaborative relationship between the two ports and will see formation of a new dredging company, via a limited partnership agreement.
The ports’ affirmed that the investment is a financially astute approach to ensuring New Zealand’s port infrastructure is well placed to meet the future demands of global shipping, given the country’s relatively small size.
Napier Port CEO Todd Dawson highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, “Securing joint ownership of this advanced dredge represents a pivotal step in future-proofing Napier Port as the leading port in central New Zealand”.
“It complements our investments in supply chain solutions, as we extend our reach domestically and globally by providing solutions to shipping lines and cargo owners.
“The dredge will enable Napier Port to optimise its current resource consents, valid until 2053, to incrementally deepen our shipping channels over time, from their current depth of 12.5 metres at low water to the consented depth of 14.5 metres.”
Mr Dawson said this will accommodate larger, deeper-draft vessels and strengthen the port’s ability to handle future growth.
Port Otago will manage and operate the dredge, leveraging its 150 years of experience in dredging operations.
Port Otago chief executive Kevin Winders emphasised the broader benefits of the agreement, “This collaboration between two like-minded ports strengthens New Zealand’s maritime infrastructure”.
“Replacing our 40-year-old New Era suction hopper dredge with such advanced technology will improve operation efficiency, reduce our carbon footprint and operate with a lighter touch on nature.”
The ports’ say the dredge will also provide the capability to respond to unforeseen events. For instance, following Cyclone Gabrielle, emergency dredging was critical to maintaining safe shipping channels and lifeline access for emergency supplies into the region.
The dredge is expected to be operational by late 2026.
