New Zealand: Ports of Auckland has decided to introduce competitive stevedoring into its Fergusson and Bledisloe Container Terminal operations.
The Port said the decision followed an eight-week consultation and evaluation process, which produced a compelling business case that competitive stevedoring could enable Auckland to become New Zealand's best-performing port, and a leader in the Asia-Pacific region over a short period. Port CEO Tony Gibson said the decision to bring stevedoring operations in line with global industry best practice would be welcome news for Aucklanders as well as customers.
"We've weighed up all the options and we believe this is the best decision for the future of the Port," said Gibson. "Auckland enjoys significant natural advantages, including its proximity to New Zealand's largest market, where 60 percent of exports, and 70 percent of import business takes place. Until now we have been constrained by practices which have reduced the Port's competitiveness, and in recent months industrial action, which has lost us significant business."
The Port will appoint three different companies to supply stevedoring services. It expects current operating capacity to increase, and expects to become a best-practice port in the Asia-Pacific region over the next few years. Ports of Auckland will retain the benefit from improved workplace operations and planning functions, leading to better health and safety practice.
Up to 292 employees, mainly stevedores, will be immediately affected by the decision. Gibson says that stevedoring staff will be encouraged to apply for new positions with the stevedoring companies. A process of consultation will begin later this week on redundancies at the Port.
"This decision has not been made lightly, but we believe it is vital to ensuring a successful and sustainable future for the Port, including protecting jobs over the long term," he said.
