New port sounding vessel under construction

A new Port of Greymouth sounding vessel is under construction in Rangiora, part of an $8 million investment revitalising the port.

The historic port dates to the 1860s gold rush, with its development originally based on timber and coal exports.

Ongoing investment in recent years has seen floating jetties installed and a large slipway shed constructed, allowing boats to be serviced and repaired under shelter.

Thanks to $2.3 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund and $1.2 million from Development West Coast, more floating jetties will be installed on the Blaketown side of the port, along with an amenities block. A new boat and sounding equipment are also on order.

The small multi-purpose vessel is due for delivery in spring, costing $244,000.

Council Group Manager Economic Development and Regulatory, Peter O’Sullivan, said they were also designing a new floating jetty to replace the ageing Blaketown berths.

It will extend far enough to allow vessels to berth on both sides, with secure access.
Various design options are being considered.

The Blaketown heavy loading wharf will also be rebuilt and will be able to support a crane if required.
“We are still working through concept designs,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“The work will prepare the port for future generations.”

The council is also focused on Richmond Wharf, around the corner from the lagoon on the Grey River.
Thanks to $4.3 million from the Government’s Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund, a section will be rebuilt, with design and investigation work under way.

This section will be able to accommodate roll-on/roll-off vessels.
All these projects will make the port more resilient, provide improved access for coastal trading ships, and assist during emergencies.

“We are hoping to attract more recreational boats, and there is interest from larger fishing tour operators who would come here,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

This follows previous Provincial Growth Fund upgrades, including the Aromahana bottom dumper dredge, slipway shed, and Grey-side floating pontoons.