The Port of Auckland has posted record-breaking financial results, reporting a 98% surge in net profit after tax (NPAT) for the first half of the 2025 financial year. The port is now projecting full-year profits of up to $80 million, reinforcing its role as a critical driver of Auckland’s economy.
The strong financial performance is matched by significant operational achievements, with container volumes hitting their highest levels in years and a booming cruise season boosting revenue. At the same time, the port is preparing for major infrastructure developments to accommodate larger vessels and secure its long-term growth.
Financial Performance Reaches New Heights
For the six months ending December 31, 2024, the Port of Auckland reported an underlying NPAT of $42 million, nearly double the previous year’s result. The full-year NPAT forecast has now been upgraded to between $75 million and $80 million, well above the $65 million originally anticipated.
Revenue also surged 20% year-on-year to $195.4 million, with increased container volumes playing a key role. The port has continued to strengthen its financial position, reducing net debt by more than $15 million.
Port of Auckland CEO Roger Gray highlighted the significance of these results, stating, “Our interim results and dividend show we are well on our way to delivering a million dollars a week to the city and meeting our commitment to provide a fair return to our shareholder.”
In line with its profitability, the port declared a $25 million interim dividend, contributing to a total of $40 million in dividends for Auckland Council over the past year—$10 million more than the previous year.
Container and Cruise Growth Drive Operational Success
The port’s operational performance has also been a standout, with container trade growing by 8% year-on-year. The port handled over 70,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) in June 2024—the highest monthly volume in three years.
The cruise sector has experienced unprecedented growth, with a record-breaking 133 cruise ship calls bringing 335,290 passengers through Auckland. This surge has reinforced the port’s importance as a gateway for international tourism.
However, challenges remain in other areas. While container volumes have climbed, vehicle imports have dropped 30% year-on-year due to a slowdown in the automotive sector. Structural steel volumes have also declined, reflecting a dip in the construction industry.
Safety and Sustainability Initiatives Gain Momentum
The port has made significant strides in workplace safety, reporting a 56% reduction in injury-related lost workdays over the past year. Gray credited the success to a cultural shift within the organisation, as well as initiatives such as the launch of the Health and Safety Performance Index and the Approved Code of Practice.
Environmental sustainability is another key focus. The port has introduced an Electric Empty Container Handler with funding from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and is investing in solar panels to provide around 6% of its energy needs. Additionally, reforestation efforts at the Āwhitu Peninsula have led to the planting of 50,000 native trees.
Major Infrastructure Projects Set to Transform the Port
To prepare for the future, the Port of Auckland is pressing ahead with two critical infrastructure projects: the Bledisloe North Wharf expansion and the Fergusson Berth Extension.
The Bledisloe North Wharf project will add a new 330-meter wharf at the terminal’s end, allowing the port to accommodate larger cruise ships and roll-on/roll-off carriers. This move will free up waterfront space, enabling the port to fulfil its commitment to sell Marsden and Captain Cook Wharves back to Auckland Council for public use.
The Fergusson Berth Extension, a 45-meter wharf expansion, will enable the port to handle container ships carrying up to 10,000 TEU, keeping Auckland competitive in the global shipping industry.
Gray emphasised the urgency of these projects, stating, “The minute I get consent, I wanna start building. We want to get cracking on a project of national significance which will also set Auckland up for the next 40-to-50 years.”
Both projects were fast-tracked under the Environmental Protection Authority’s (EPA) approvals process, with the port among the first applicants to take advantage of the new regulatory framework.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
The Port of Auckland’s turnaround has not gone unnoticed. It was recently honoured with the Deloitte Top 200 Most Improved Performance Award and the HRNZ Future of Work Award, underscoring its progress in financial performance, innovation, and workforce management.
Gray remains optimistic about the port’s trajectory, noting that the organisation has achieved its three-year “Regaining Our Mana” strategy ahead of schedule. The next phase, “Strengthening Our Mana,” will focus on further performance improvements, long-term sustainability, and continued engagement with Auckland’s business and residential communities.
“We remain committed to safely lifting performance, delivering better returns to our owner Auckland Council, and improving how we support and engage with our customers,” Gray said.