Napier Port has commissioned four new Kalmar container handling machines – two Eco Reach Stackers and two Empty Container Handlers, after a comprehensive procurement process that was aligned to the port’s Emissions Reduction Strategy and wider sustainability objectives.
These machines have a natural, long-term life cycle, so it is critical the right environmental and investment decisions are made as the port works towards its goal of net zero emissions by 2050. Napier Port CEO Todd Dawson was excited to see the newly commissioned Kalmar equipment moving cargo in the container terminal saying the port is focused on the reduction of diesel consumption and reducing carbon emissions on port. “We made good progress last year
on measuring our emissions and developing an Emission Reduction Strategy that will provide the framework to guide Napier Port’s important decarbonising journey ahead. This decision-making framework requires mandatory consideration of low emission technology for any investment or business case and is aligned to our Asset Renewal Programme,” says Todd.
The new Kalmar Eco Reach Stackers are best in class for emission rates and all four machines offer more efficient fuel usage rates to help drive down diesel consumption and total emissions. Kalmar was selected as the supplier of choice as its values and broader sustainability objectives closely aligned with those of Napier Port.
Kalmar New Zealand Director Jason Manak says the new equipment use eco-efficient technology to reduce fuel consumption by up to 40% in comparison to traditionally powered diesel equipment. Combined with the highest lifting and lowering rates for improved cargo-handling productivity, these machines are able to operate with a reduced running costs per move.
Trans-Tasman shipping service underway Napier Port has a new weekly Trans-Tasman service calling to Napier Port, the ANZ Shuttle service, operated by CMA CGM Group. Todd says the new and ninth shipping service to Napier provides further connections and flexibility for New Zealand importers and exporters, particularly as the Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti regions progress with the cyclone recovery.
“We are working closely with cargo owners to overcome local logistical bottlenecks and ensure they retain access to key regional and global markets. The best thing we can do is to keep essential supplies and imports coming into the region, and to help our exporters get their high-value cargo to market,” says Todd.
Napier Port extended its hours of operation in order to support Hawke’s Bay growers as the region move into the traditional peak season for produce exports. Berth windows for container shipping, previously disrupted by the pandemic, have also resumed and provide more certainty and regularity around vessel scheduling for importers and exporters.
“Looking ahead, our port team will continue to prioritise support for our customers and cargo owners in the aftermath of the cyclone as Napier Port remains committed to keep doing everything we can to support our region’s recovery,” added Todd. Additionally, Napier Port welcomed two new container shipping line services calling to Napier earlier in January.
The T.S. Lines China and ZIM Australia services provide greater and timely options for exporters and importers and help to ensure a competitive market across the wider supply chain. Napier Port is also supporting Eastland Port in Gisborne with a coastal shipping route on the East Coast, initially for three months giving businesses on the East Coast an opportunity to export products that they’re currently struggling to get to market due to road and rail damage.
