EPA approves Northland Shipyard project for next review phase
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has approved the Northland Shipyard and Dry Dock project application as complete, moving it to the next phase of review. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones confirmed that the application will now be considered by an independent expert panel.
The project, planned for Marsden Point, aims to build a shipyard and marine maintenance facility. Jones highlighted its significance, noting that Cabinet has allocated $100 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support the initiative.
Currently, New Zealand relies on overseas dry docks, such as those in Sydney and Singapore, for large vessel maintenance. A domestic facility would cut transit costs and emissions while keeping maintenance spending within the country, boosting the economy.
The project is expected to create hundreds of permanent jobs and provide a significant economic boost to Northland. Jones emphasized its role in addressing New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit, particularly as the country prepares for new inter-island ferries.