Port Investment Aimed at Supporting Gisborne’s Economic Growth

Associate Transport Minister James Meager has announced a Government investment in new container-handling equipment for Gisborne’s Eastland Port, aimed at creating new economic opportunities for the Tairāwhiti region.

Mr Meager detailed the $5 million investment during a visit to the Port as part of his two-day visit to the region. He said the funding will assist local businesses, exporters, and industries by enabling container shipments from Gisborne.

According to Mr Meager, the investment will also help maintain connectivity for Tairāwhiti by providing an option for essential supplies to arrive by sea if road access is disrupted, referencing the impacts experienced during Cyclone Gabrielle.

Eastland Port is the first confirmed recipient of support from the Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund, created under the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2024. The $30 million fund supports projects that improve the sector’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from events that may affect New Zealand’s freight network.

Mr Meager noted that supporting freight movements in and out of Gisborne is important for economic growth in the region and aligns with the Government’s plan to double export value over the next decade.

He said the development of efficient container handling at Gisborne is expected to draw new trade, encourage investment, and assist job creation. It will also help producers access broader markets, reinforce supply chains, and improve the region’s competitiveness.

Mr Meager acknowledged the efforts of local MP Dana Kirkpatrick for advocating for the Gisborne community and promoting investment in Eastland Port.