CentrePort brings the world to Whanganui

CentrePort brings the world to Whanganui

CentrePort, central New Zealand’s largest seaport, has a new joint venture container terminal in Whanganui.

Transport Minister Simon Bridges officially opened the venture this morning – the result of a partnership between CentrePort of Wellington and Ali Arc Logistics of Whanganui.

The terminal is served by a daily KiwiRail freight train as part of CentrePort’s CentreRail service, which also calls at hubs across New Zealand including Palmerston North, Blenheim and New Plymouth

CentrePort Chief Executive Blair O’Keeffe said the site represents a multi-million dollar investment between the Port, Ali Arc and KiwiRail and would play a key role in the region’s growth.

“This venture enables us to connect the world to the Manawatu-Whanganui region through cost effective trade and transport connections.”

Ali Arc Logistics General Manager Brendon Bartley says the development of the site has been underway in phases for the last two years and the formation of the joint venture would continue to support the growth of businesses in the region.

“When we took over the site, it had been underutilised for more than 20 years. Working with CentrePort and KiwiRail, we breathed life back into it, with great support from local exporters and importers.”

KiwiRail Chief Executive Peter Reidy said it is important to maintain efficient and viable rail connections to the central region, which contribute 27 per cent of New Zealand’s GDP.

“We have an excellent partnership with CentrePort that’s delivering ongoing benefits for the central region’s importers and exporters.”

Mr O’Keeffe said CentrePort was committed to investing in more container terminals and rail links and preparing for the arrival of bigger ships in future.

“To remain competitive, businesses in central New Zealand need easy access to big-ship capable ports and we’re investing to make that happen,” he said.

ENDS

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