Ports of Auckland, BP to provide VLSFO, MGO bunkering services

Ports of Auckland subsidiary Seafuels and BP have reached an agreement to use the bunker barge Awanuia to deliver MARPOL-compliant very low-sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) and marine gas oil (MGO) to the marine market in the Auckland port.

Ports of Auckland said the agreement will help ensure New Zealand is able to meet its international obligations under Annex VI of the MARPOL convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, by providing international and domestic vessels calling New Zealand with MARPOL-compliant fuels. New Zealand joined MARPOL in 1998 and is due to sign up to Annex VI from late 2021.

The partnership allows BP to re-enter the New Zealand VLSFO market and once again deliver VLSFO to its customers. The bunker barge Awanuia will deliver fuel to BP’s shipping customers in Auckland while ensuring minimised port stays.