‘Tugboat ballet’ among events at wharf opening

Eastland Port had a quiet month in July, just ships calling for logs, but the excitement builds as they prepare to christen the new Wharf 7 development later this month with a family day, and the first ship to dock alongside it is due next week. The logger Yangtze Ambition was pictured coming into port on Monday to start August’s shipping tally. Picture by Liam Clayton

Eastland Port had a quiet July with only six ships berthed, taking more than 125,000 tonnes of logs out of the region.

An Eastland Port spokesperson said there was a fair amount of weather delay.

“Also a lack of cargo coming in, which reflects the low export numbers.

“On the bright side the coastal container ship Rangitata will be the first ever vessel to berth on the new Wharf 7 next week.

“She will be delivering 2000 tonnes of fertiliser.

“The Wharf 7 site is starting to clear of machinery and construction materials and soon the deck will be completely bare making it a perfect opportunity for a community event,” she said.

“We are excited to share that on Saturday August 26, from 10am until noon, we will be hosting ‘Wharf Wheels’ to celebrate the completion of Wharf 7.”

Families will be invited to bring their children along to bike, skate, scooter and zoom around the new wharf, she said.

“We will have port machinery on display as well as a ‘tugboat ballet’ where Maki and Ika Nui will put on a show.

“We are really looking forward to opening the port up to the public to create a memorable day filled with excitement and fun.

“Please follow the Eastland Port Facebook page for more information.”