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Port expands to Waikato

Posted on 10 February, 2016

Ports of Auckland Ltd (POAL) has signed a conditional agreement to purchase 33 hectares of land in Waikato. The Northgate Business Park, eight kilometres north of Hamilton, will be developed as a freight hub. Tony Gibson, chief executive, says the “strategic purchase” will be developed over a number of years. “Establishing a freight hub in the Waikato is a central part of our supply-chain strategy as it is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing areas and a major freight generator.” He adds the hub “can be used to balance freight flows around the North Island and eliminate unnecessary movement of empty containers”, which will lower the cost to importers and exporters. Gibson says the hub’s international freight links will benefit the region by “encouraging additional investment in the Waikato and greater employment opportunities”. Along with increasing use of rail from 13 to 30 per cent of traffic to the Auckland port, the company will also will “strong environmental principles” at the development, including storm-water treatment, rain-water recycling and low-energy use. POAL is aiming to complete the deal by March 31.