A Big Thank You and An Update on Port Status

Now that we have a moment to take a breath after the devastating earthquake of 22 February 2011, we’d like to thank all our customers and business partners for their tremendous assistance and ongoing faith in us during these difficult times.

To those of you who have suffered personal losses or damage to your homes, may I convey utmost sympathies on behalf of everyone here.

As you will have seen from our earlier communications, we are very pleased to say that there were no injuries at the port on the day of the earthquake, and that all our staff and everyone else onsite were found to be safe. It is with sadness, however, that we report that over 40 of our people have lost their homes, and that there have been sad and stressful personal repercussions from the earthquake.

The Lyttelton Port of Christchurch was very close indeed to the quake epicenter, which was just up the hill behind us, slightly to the west.

Though the port suffered significant damage, compounded on the effects of the earthquake of 4 September 2010, I’m pleased report that with your assistance we are progressing down the path to normality.

As the trade gateway to the South Island and strategic asset to the Canterbury region – and nation – the Port has a major responsibility to keep goods and commodities moving through.

Fortunately, the port is extremely resilient in terms of people, facilities and infrastructure. We were up and running within 96 hours and this response time is extremely pleasing.

PORT OPERATIONS UPDATE

Gas and fuel pipeline

The pipeline is now operating and pumping gas, which is freeing up traffic through the Lyttelton tunnel.

Container trade

All normal container-line services have resumed.

General trade

General cargoes are in good shape, including bananas, logs and vehicles.

Infrastructure

We are working through a planned work programme for the recovery of damaged infrastructure. Engineers, electrical and civil maintenance are continuing to assess structural damage on a regular basis, and following aftershocks.

The next stage is to plan out the priorities in terms of berth rebuilds, building up the seawall and long-term paving.

Once again, thank you for your understanding and patience in what has been a stressful and busy time for everyone. Supporting our port supports Christchurch and its rebuild.

Our thoughts remain with the all the families of Canterbury.

ENDS

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