Tainui Group Holdings has announced that global transport and logistics leader Maersk will establish a major new coldstore facility at the Ruakura Superhub.
TGH has entered an agreement with Maersk for the long-term ground lease of 4.5 hectares in the logistics hub adjacent to the Ruakura Inland Port. The Mearsk facility will include a new, purpose-built 16,000m2 coldstore facility to be constructed by Maersk to a Greenstar 5 sustainability rating.
Tainui Group Holdings Chair and Te Arataura member Hinerangi Raumati-Tu’ua welcomed Maersk to Ruakura Superhub.
“Recent history shows the need for resilient supply chains and we’re delighted that Maersk has chosen to develop its new facility at Ruakura Superhub.
“When this new facility opens in late 2023 it will help ensure the best possible local and global connections for New Zealand exporters and importers. Maersk has also expressed an intention to work with us to create meaningful employment opportunities for members of our iwi,” she says.
Chris Joblin, Chief Executive of TGH, says it is gratifying to see TGH’s vision for Ruakura as a logistics and distribution hub continuing to come to life.
“As a truly global player, Maersk brings the serious scale and global transport connections which will confirm the role of Ruakura Superhub as a key node for New Zealand’s supply chain.
“Their presence will have many synergies for the other significant logistics and distribution businesses who have either confirmed a move to the Ruakura Superhub or are still planning to do so,” he says.
Henrik Jensen, Managing Director of Maersk Oceania commented: “From dairy and meat to seafood and fruits, the primary industry sector is key to drive the development of New Zealand’s economy. We are pleased to offer our customers innovative solutions and access to our integrated global network, through which we can contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth and bring new opportunities to the communities we are part of. This cold storage facility will cater for both national and international supply chains, and in conjunction with our extensive New Zealand ocean network connecting the world.
“We firmly believe it will enable us to be flexible and agile in our operations to ensure that we can match customers’ needs with seasonal demand.”
Previously confirmed partners and tenants at Ruakura Superhub include the Port of Tauranga (in a JV to develop the inland port), PBT Express Freight Network (new regional distribution centre), Waitomo Group (flagship service centre including a fuel stop with alternative energy options) and Big Chill.
Maersk’s commitment to achieve a Greenstar 5 rating for the building is a good fit for Ruakura.
The shift of cargoes from road and on to rail is projected to take 65,000 truck journeys off roads when the Ruakura Inland Port is fully established. Ruakura includes provision for future solar generation and electricity microgrids. The precinct includes a 10-hectare wetland and more than 1 million native plants in the 92-hectare first stage of the 490-hectare development.
Ruakura Superhub, which is recognised by the New Zealand Government as a project of national significance, is one of the country’s largest developments. It spans logistics, industrial, retail and residential development areas. Located at an emerging ‘sweet spot’ for New Zealand’s supply chain, it will be anchored by a 30-hectare inland port, with the first 17-hectares of this also set for an official opening as part of Stage 1 in the third quarter of this year.
Photo: [Pictured from left] Ivan Bartley (Development Manager, TGH), Peter Tuck (GM Development, TGH), Glenn Bigland (L&S Procurement, Maersk), Jana Phillips (Business Development Manager - Supply Chain, Maersk), Robert McLeod (Product Manager - Cold Chain Logistics Oceania, Maersk), Tony Mildon (Oceania Reefer Sales Manager, Maersk), Santina Doucas (Head of L&S Procurement - Oceania, Maersk), Dave Christie (Supply Chain Strategy Director, TGH).