CentrePort Looking to Resume Modified Container Ops

New Zealand’s CentrePort, Wellington port operator, will begin work to secure its gantry cranes, as it develops plans to resume modified container operations within four to six months.

The port’s container area sustained significant damage in an earthquake measuring a magnitude of 7.5 which struck New Zealand on November 14, leaving the port’s two 86-metres high and 720-ton gantry cranes inoperable.

“Over the coming weeks we will secure the cranes, as the first stage in our plan to develop operations for customers and build resilience in case of another significant event,” Derek Nind, Chief Executive, said.

He added that, for the medium term, the company is developing a plan for interim works that could restore modified container operations within four to six months.

“We know how important container shipping is to the regional economy. That’s why we worked hard to quickly restore limited container movements using ships with their own cranes. We are now assessing longer term options, to keep freight costs low for Wellington’s businesses,” Nind informed.

CentrePort is also set to start maintenance works on the berth pockets alongside part of Aotea Quay wharf, since the earthquake damaged Aotea Quay 1 and Thorndon Container Wharf as well.

The November earthquake disrupted port operations in Wellington and Picton, as the ports issued damage notifications.