Transport Minister Hon Phil Twyford has officially opened Ports of Auckland’s new inland port at Horotiu, just north of Hamilton.

“The Waikato Freight Hub is a key part of Ports of Auckland‘s rail-connected North Island freight hub network which links Kiwi businesses with New Zealand and global markets,” said Ports of Auckland CEO Tony Gibson.

“This is part of Ports of Auckland‘s strategy to support regional and national economic growth with freight hubs in South Auckland, Mount Maunganui, Manawatu and now Waikato. All are located next to rail and are in regions that generate significant volumes of exports that need to be efficiently transported to a major port.

“Our freight hub network will help lower freight costs, reduce carbon emissions, and offer a wider range of shipping services to North Island exporters and importers. The hub provides future customers with a unique opportunity. Businesses will be able to have their own sites with customised sizd warehouse design and layout,” said Gibson.

Transport Minister Hon Phil Twyford said the investment was great for New Zealand and the Waikato.

“As an island nation, far from overseas markets, we rely on international trade to maintain our standard of living. We need strong, efficient transport links to keep costs down and maintain our competitiveness. Investments like this are absolutely vital.

“Our Government is a strong supporter of rail, so we welcome the fact that this hub will be rail-connected. Moving freight by rail to and from our ports will help reduce road congestion in our major cities and lower carbon emissions, helping the country meet emissions targets.”

Waikato District Council Mayor Allan Sanson believed a strong freight and logistics sector was key to supporting the region‘s growth.

“Waikato is New Zealand‘s second fastest growing region after Auckland. It makes up the heart of the Golden Triangle bounded by Auckland and the Bay of Plenty, and our region is a major contributor to national export earnings, which continue to be dominated by our primary industries.

“This hub will support our existing export industries as well as providing an opportunity for more local businesses to grow and be successful on the international stage. We are also pleased that when fully complete, the freight hub is expected to generate around 300 jobs directly in our district and facilitate many more across the region by acting as an economic catalyst,” said Sanson.