A major expansion at the Ports of Auckland has become the first project to gain approval under the government’s newly introduced fast-track system.
The approved plans for the port include the construction of a new reinforced concrete-pillared wharf at the Bledisloe Terminal, an extension of the Fergusson North Berth, and the addition of a cruise passenger terminal, as well as other key upgrades.
Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop said it would enable larger cruise ships to dock in Auckland and boost New Zealand’s import and export capacity.
“The project will deliver lasting economic benefits by boosting the efficiency of a critical part of Auckland’s economy and supporting long-term growth.”
Construction is set to commence next month.
An independent expert panel reviewed and approved the project’s application with conditions. The consent was granted 66 working days after the panel was assembled to evaluate the application.
Projects included on the fast-track list
A total of 149 projects appeared on the fast-track list and qualified to submit applications to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for review by an expert panel.
The panel reviews each application and determines whether to approve it, including any conditions attached to the approvals.
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones expects more projects to reach the approval stage, noting that 10 are currently under review by expert panels and an additional three are in the pipeline.
The Act has also drawn criticism, with opponents against certain projects among the 149, as well as expressing concerns about the potential to override environmental protections and Te Tiriti.