Landmark moment for east coast shipping

Eastland Port in Gisborne has achieved a monumental milestone in its decade-long Twin Berth Development journey, with the recent issue of new consent from the Environment Court.

Smiles all round ± from left, Andrew Gaddum, Wendie Harvey and Marty Bayley.

The approval covers a total of 26 resource consents, including extending Wharf 8, reclaiming land, dredging operations, and modernising critical infrastructure such as the stormwater system and
outer breakwater. 

Eastland Port general manager infrastructure and commercial, Marty Bayley, says the result will be a port capable of simultaneously berthing two 185-200 metre vessels, diversifying trade and reinforcing the region’s economic foundation.

“This has been a decade in the making, involving robust consultation, independent advice, and tireless efforts from technical experts, iwi, hapu, and the community. 

“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the patience and goodwill of everyone who worked with us to collectively address challenges and find the best solutions possible. The outcome reflects the strong relationships we’ve built and our commitment to being a responsible operator of our harbour.

“Not only have we secured consents with conditions that provide the port certainty for the next 35 years, we have also strengthened our relationships and standing throughout the community.” 

The independent commissioners overseeing the application highlighted Eastland Port’s collaborative approach as a standout success.

“Dr. Brent Cowie, a retiring commissioner, called our application the best he had seen in his career and commended the co-operative approach to addressing issues,” Bayley says. 

“That’s a validation of the extraordinary effort and collaboration behind this project.”

Eastland Port chief executive officer, Andrew Gaddum, says it sets a major precedent.

“This project is not only regionally significant but nationally remarkable. 

“There are few recent examples of infrastructure projects of this scale receiving consent without the need to go right through the Environment Court process.

“I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished. The final consent conditions and relationships we’ve built reflect the dedication of our entire community.” 

Gaddum says the project will be transformational, positioning Eastland Port to support a broader range of exports beyond logs, including manufactured wood products, bioenergy, produce, and
coastal containers.

“The Twin Berth project is not just about enhancing port infrastructure—it’s about ensuring Tairawhiti remains resilient, competitive, and well-positioned for the future,” chairwoman Wendie Harvey says.  

“I am incredibly proud of the collective effort that has brought us to this pivotal moment, and I believe these developments will leave a lasting, positive legacy for future generations,” said Harvey.

With the consents now in place, Eastland Port is eager to move forward. 

Design work is already underway, with full attention now focused on delivering projects that will support diverse trade opportunities.  

“These developments are not just about strengthening our port; they’re about strengthening Tairawhiti,” Gaddum says. 

“We are building infrastructure that will serve our region for generations to come. Now, it’s time to get on with making it happen.”