Ports Of Auckland Announces Drake New Zealand & AWF Group As Competitive Stevedore Partners

Ports of Auckland announced it has signed contracts with Drake New Zealand and AWF Group following its decision to introduce competitive stevedoring at its Fergusson and Bledisloe Container Terminal operations.

Ports of Auckland CEO, Tony Gibson said the company welcomes AWF & Drake as partners for Ports of Auckland.

“We’ve set high and very clear expectations in our negotiations. These are partnerships that will contribute to innovation and the development of Ports of Auckland as a customer focussed, aspirational port, which delivers for Auckland.”

Gary Withers, General Manager of Drake New Zealand says the company is experienced in delivering high quality work forces in New Zealand and around the world including an international stevedoring operation.

“We look forward to working with Ports of Auckland as it implements its move to competitive stevedoring,” said Mr Withers.

Mike Huddleston, CEO of AWF Group, says that over 25 years in New Zealand AWF has become the leading supplier of staff to New Zealand industries. AWF has a workforce of over 3,500 staff working in New Zealand businesess everyday.

“We are very pleased to partner with Ports of Auckland to provide stevedoring services. We will bring a highly motivated, skilled team to the wharf,” said Mr Huddleston.

An annnouncement on the third stevedoring company that will be working with Ports of Auckland is expected shortly.

Ports of Auckland Ltd is New Zealand’s most important port, handling around 894,000 TEU (20ft-equivalent units), more than 1,500 ship calls and 3.5 m tonnes of break-bulk (non-containerised) cargo per annum. It is New Zealand’s leading import port and a key partner to export and import industries, as well as New Zealand’s premier cruise port and vehicle import gateway. Ports of Auckland is 100%-owned by Auckland Council Investments Ltd.

ENDS

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