Port of Tauranga receives approval for Stella Passage development

Port of Tauranga has received a draft decision from the fast-track expert panel proposing to grant all approvals sought for its Stella Passage development, subject to conditions. The port has two days to comment on the proposed conditions, with other parties also given the opportunity to respond before a final decision is expected in early September. The Stella Passage development involves extending the Sulphur Point container berth by 385 metres in two stages and the Mount Maunganui wharves by 315 metres, converting existing cargo storage land within the port’s current footprint. Associated works include reclamation of land behind the new wharves and dredging of Stella Passage. Leonard Sampson, Chief Executive of Port of Tauranga, described the draft decision as very welcome news, noting that the development is urgently needed as the port is currently operating at capacity.