Ports of Auckland Reports 70 Pct Increase in Half-Year Profit (New Zealand)

Ports of Auckland revealed a 70% increase in half-year profit, as rising productivity attracted more customers. Freight volumes lifted across the board, with a record number of containers handled in the six months to December 31.

Ports of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson said “Our productivity has gradually improved since we started restructuring in 2011. As we’ve delivered more of what our customers want, so they’ve rewarded us with more business. In effect the restructuring has enabled us to take advantage of an improving economy and Auckland’s continuing growth.”

Since 2011 Ports of Auckland has reorganised its management structure, improved container handling and its use of technology, and lifted labour utilisation, with 60 per cent of stevedores now working a flexible shift and roster system.

“Looking ahead, we are focussing on developing our leaders, increasing opportunities for women, particularly in operational and management roles, and investing in the training required to prepare our people for the future,” he added.

“2014 has started well, with volumes holding up across all areas, and as a result we recently announced new investment to support on-going growth: a larger new tug to handle bigger ships, and two new straddle carriers to cope with the rising container numbers.”

[mappress]

Ports of Auckland, February 19, 2014; Image: Wikipedia