New Zealand’s southern ports reemerge after earthquake

The Port of Wellington’s general cargo and container wharf gates will remain tentatively closed through Nov. 22, but its oil terminal reopened today.

   Ports in southern New Zealand are still assessing damages both inside and outside their marine terminal gates in the aftermath of Monday’s 7.5 magnitude earthquake.
   The Port of Wellington, which is operated by CentrePort Wellington, has reported minor damage to various buildings on the property. Its general cargo and container wharf gates will remain tentatively closed through Nov. 22. However, the port’s oil terminal reopened today.
   “We understand this is challenging and confronting for customers and tenants, and we’ve continued to keep them updated on the situation,” said CentrePort Wellington CEO Derek Nind in a statement.
   Nind noted that the port suffered damage to some of its wharves and roadways due to liquefaction and land settlement.
   Picton, another port in southern New Zealand impacted by Monday’s earthquake, re-opened all its berths today, according to Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS).
   “Some port workers could not reach the port due to landslides closing roads,” ISS said. “Rail services are impacted due to landslides south of Picton and rail buckling. Cargo deliveries outside of the immediate port region will require careful planning with authorities and agents.”