Road-based cargo flows to and from Napier Port are expected to be enhanced through a NZ$25m government investment in local roading improvements.
Entailing upgrades to various intersections and expressways, the works form part of the Government’s Accelerated Regional Roading Programme aimed at fast-tracking the delivery of transport projects important to regional New Zealand.
Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce says the access package is included within an overall NZ$245m land transport investment being made in the Hawke’s Bay region over the next three years.
“In 2015 Napier Port handled the equivalent of more than 250,000 containers - up more than 16% compared with 2014,” he says.
“Improving the road access will enable more efficient and safe movement of freight to and from the port and support future growth.”
Napier Port itself is in preparation mode for increased cargo flows, having recently initiated resource consent applications to commence construction of a new wharf and phased dredging programme, and having announced a strategic alliance with Ports of Auckland.
