Busy November for log loading at Gisborne port

The log ship African Toucan enters Eastland Port during a beautiful dawn on November 30, a month that saw more than 282,000 tonnes of logs exported.

Eastland Port recorded a strong month of shipping activity in November with 10 vessels loading 282,248 tonnes of logs.

Favourable weather supported larger load sizes - five vessels taking more than 30,000 tonnes each, a port spokeswoman said.

“December is expected to remain steady for log exports.

“The summer cruise season begins this Friday with the arrival of Scenic Eclipse II,” she said.

Subject to weather conditions, the vessel will berth at Wharf 7.

“If conditions are suitable, the cruise line’s helicopter may also operate scenic flights directly from the ship for passengers wanting to experience Tairāwhiti from the air.

“This will be a spectacular sight and a first for our port.

“This month also brought positive and exciting news for our business and the region, with the Government confirming a $5 million investment in new container-handling equipment,” she said.

The 177-metre-long bulk carrier Norse Honshu as seen from the Hawaiki Tūranga sculpture at Waikanae. The ship, which sails under the flag of Panama, is loading up with logs.

“It comes at a perfect time, with our Twin Berth project due for completion next year.

“Together, these developments will create more capacity, flexibility and resilience for our region.

“We look forward to another safe and productive month supporting regional exporters and welcoming visitors to the region.”