Summer questions: Port of Tauranga CEO Leonard Sampson sees enormous potential in ‘golden triangle’

Securing resource consents for development is a major focus for Port of Tauranga chief executive Leonard Sampson this year.

The 2025 year offers enormous opportunity potential for the economic “golden triangle” of Bay of Plenty, Hamilton and Auckland, says Port of Tauranga chief executive Leonard Sampson.

Reflecting on how New Zealand’s biggest port and main export gateway weathered the stormy 2024 economy, Sampson says there are positives ahead for the NZX-listed port company.

How would you describe 2024 for your business?

We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have weathered the recession reasonably well so far, thanks to our diverse mix of cargoes and income streams.

Some of our customers, such as kiwifruit exporter Zespri, have had a record year, while others have had a very long, tough year with little relief in sight. We remain positive about all the opportunities open to Port of Tauranga.

What will be your biggest business challenges in 2025?

Two things: securing the resource consents we need to build the capacity New Zealand requires now and into the future, and continuing our quest to improve productivity and efficiency without sacrificing the health and safety of our people and the community.

What opportunities do you see in 2025?

For Port of Tauranga, there’s enormous potential in the “golden triangle” of Auckland, Hamilton and the Bay of Plenty.

We’re seeing the Ruakura Inland Port, our joint venture with Tainui Group Holdings, going from strength to strength as more businesses and people migrate south of Auckland.

We also see potential from our investment in Northport, near Whangārei, and its future ability to alleviate congestion in Auckland and contribute to an integrated Upper North Island supply chain.

What will it take to kickstart New Zealand’s economy?

We’re hopefully seeing the green shoots of a recovery, with monetary policy easing. We welcome new Government policy that focuses on prioritising infrastructure investment and productivity growth, this will provide a much-needed boost for the New Zealand economy.

How will a Trump presidency affect the geopolitical dynamics?

That remains to be seen. However, geopolitical disruption tends to play havoc with shipping rates and capacity, so we hope that stability is the aim of all world leaders.

What are the concrete actions your company has taken to reduce climate change?

Our biggest source of carbon emissions is diesel use in our straddle carrier and marine fleet. We are currently replacing diesel-electric straddle carriers with hybrid alternatives, and we’re investigating the replacement of straddles with fully electric Auto Stacking Cranes (ASCs) along with the purchase of our first hybrid tug.

How are you increasing diversity in your business?

We have good diversity of thought around the board and management table at Port of Tauranga, but it would be great if the port industry could get together and figure out how to attract more women into operational roles.

What is your New Year’s resolution?

Still working on it!

Where and how are you holidaying this summer?

I’ll be relaxing at home and on the harbour with friends and family, some of whom are holidaying here from overseas.

What would you recommend as a good podcast to listen to over summer?

Between Two Beers and Sportscafe-ish.