Construction Begins on Bledisloe North Wharf in Auckland

Construction has commenced on the Bledisloe North Wharf, which marks the first project to be fast-tracked under the New Zealand Government’s Fast Track programme. This development is part of the Port of Auckland’s ambitious plan for a total infrastructure upgrade valued at **$200 million**. The official launch took place during a ceremony led by Prime Minister **Christopher Luxon**, Infrastructure Minister **Chris Bishop**, and executives from the Port of Auckland, alongside blessings from local iwi.

The Bledisloe North project includes several significant enhancements to the port facilities. It features the construction of a new reinforced concrete-piled wharf at the Bledisloe Terminal, an extension of the **Fergusson North wharf**, and the introduction of a dedicated cruise passenger terminal. This multi-cargo wharf will allow the relocation of roll-on/roll-off capacity and accommodate cruise ships exceeding **300 metres** in length, thereby freeing up the **Princess Wharf** berth for smaller vessels.

Enhancements for Economic Growth

According to the Port of Auckland, these investments aim to build a more resilient port that enhances the city’s connectivity to global markets. **Roger Gray**, Chief Executive of the Port of Auckland, emphasized the project’s importance for the region. He stated, “This will make us big ship capable for cruise and containers, and support Auckland well into the future.” He also highlighted that the new cruise terminal will be co-designed with iwi, stakeholders, and the community, ensuring it reflects Auckland’s cultural, social, and economic diversity.

The development not only supports the cruise tourism industry but also aligns with Auckland Council’s long-term plan to improve waterfront access for residents, reducing the need for cruise ships to utilize the downtown ferry basin. Gray noted that this project represents a significant opportunity for Aucklanders, enhancing their engagement with the waterfront.

Fast Track Programme and Project Timeline

The construction of Bledisloe North Wharf is anticipated to take between **14 and 16 months** to complete. It is part of a broader initiative by the Government to streamline the approval process for large-scale infrastructure, housing, and development projects. The Fast Track programme was introduced in **March 2024** to facilitate this goal.

Since the programme’s launch, **149 projects** have been authorized to seek consideration from expert panels. The panel reviewed and approved the Port of Auckland works in just **66 working days**, demonstrating the efficiency of the Fast Track process. Currently, an additional **10 projects** are under consideration, which include residential and retirement developments, as well as a mining extension in Waihi.

The Bledisloe North Wharf project is a pivotal step toward ensuring that Auckland remains a thriving economic hub for trade and tourism, marking a significant development in the region’s infrastructure landscape.