Mayor welcomes $4.3m for Greymouth port
Grey District Mayor Tania Gibson says new Government investment will see Richmond Quay upgraded, unlocking new freight opportunities and building resilience.
The Government today announced $4.3 million for upgrades to the Port of Greymouth from its Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund.
Greymouth is the West Coast’s largest port, but has limited ability to berth larger coastal vessels due to the poor condition of the main freight wharf at Richmond Quay.
The funding will include the reconstruction of up to 80 metres of currently unusable wharf to allow for the loading and unloading of cargo vessels. A roll-on, roll-off facility will also be built to enable front-loading craft to move large equipment and freight with ease, improving regional resilience during emergencies.
Additionally, a shared Regional Harbour Master programme will be established for the Westport and Greymouth ports, alongside upgraded navigational aids.
Mayor Tania Gibson said it was fantastic news for the Port of Greymouth and the wider West Coast region.
“Securing $4.3 million in funding is a significant lifeline that will enable further upgrades to our port facilities, strengthening resilience and unlocking new industry opportunities that our communities simply could not afford without the Coalition Government’s support.”
The investment will drive economic development, support local employment, and help secure the long-term future of the port.
“We were thrilled to learn that our application to the Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund was successful, and I want to acknowledge and thank our staff for the substantial work they put into preparing a strong application,” Mayor Gibson said.
These upgrades build on earlier investments, including $2.3 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund and $1.2 million from DWC for the construction of new Blaketown pontoons, a toilet and amenities block, and new boating and sounding equipment. This work is currently out for tender, with construction expected to begin this year.
They also follow previous Provincial Growth Fund upgrades, including the Aromahana bottom dumper dredge, slipway shed, and Grey-side floating pontoons.
“We are very grateful for the Government’s continued engagement and the opportunity for Ministers to see firsthand the challenges facing the port. While the future was once looking bleak, strong advocacy, collaboration with our national leaders, and the hard work of our teams mean the future of the Port of Greymouth is now looking bright.
“Investing in our ports is an investment in the future resilience of the West Coast.”
Group manager regulatory and economic development Peter O’Sullivan said it was fantastic news.
“It will allow us to build on the good works we have already begun with Westland Mineral Sands in the port area.”
