Port of Tauranga Lifts Container Rail Charges to Offset Rising Costs

Highlights:

• Port of Tauranga Limited (NZX: POT) will implement a $135 per container fee from September 1, alongside a new rail recovery charge.
• The charges aim to offset rising costs passed on by KiwiRail, effectively more than doubling current container rail transport fees.
• Exporters and freight partners are concerned about the added costs, as the port remains a vital hub for over one million containers annually.

New Fees Aim to Recover KiwiRail-Related Expenses

Port of Tauranga Limited (NZX: POT), New Zealand’s largest port, has announced a significant increase in charges for container transport by rail to its MetroPort terminal in Auckland. The changes, set to take effect from September 1, include a new $135 fee per container for site access and vehicle booking, as well as a separate rail recovery fee billed directly to shipping lines.

The port advised customers of the new charges in a July 1 notice, citing increased cost burdens from KiwiRail as the reason behind the price hikes. “We acknowledge this is a significant change and introduce it reluctantly,” the advisory stated, adding that the current charges are no longer sustainable given the higher rail fees being passed on.

Impact on Customers and Industry

This decision marks a more than doubling of the rail-related fees, which are expected to impact freight costs for importers and exporters using the MetroPort route. The Port of Tauranga emphasized that while the increases are unavoidable, it remains committed to working collaboratively with logistics partners to maintain efficient service.

At the time of writing, the new charges have sparked concern within the logistics industry, especially among exporters who rely on cost-effective inland transport solutions. The port said it would continue to review charges in line with cost pressures and infrastructure investment needs.

Broader Context

The fee increase comes amid broader challenges in New Zealand’s freight infrastructure, including KiwiRail service disruptions and rising maintenance costs. Industry observers note that while the port’s move may be necessary from a financial standpoint, it could strain relationships with some customers who are already grappling with tight margins. Port of Tauranga remains the country’s key gateway for containerised freight, handling over one million TEUs annually.

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