Minister of Justice and MP for Selwyn Amy Adams formally launched the Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC) MidlandPort facility in Rolleston last Friday (October 14).

Having begun operation in June this year, the strategically-placed inland port is seen as playing a vital role in LPC accommodating blossoming future freight volumes, says LPC chairperson Trever Burt.  “For the first time, container freight has a rail route between Rolleston and Lyttelton Port which provides the most comprehensive shipping service in the South Island,” he says.

“MidlandPort saves a journey to Lyttelton for customers. Import containers can be picked up here and export containers dropped off. It reduces empty container movements and saves time and money.”

Although targeted at accommodating increasing productivity from the irrigation scheme-transformed Canterbury Plains, MidlandPort will also realise “many other benefits”.

“It is improving travel time for freight transport and helping reduce road congestion. Each round trip rail service takes up to 80 truck trips off our roads. This is a positive step as our city focuses on improving transport efficiency.”

Capable of handling 30-wagon trains, the inland port currently operates one service a day, which is expected to increase as demand grows.

The facility can also store and repair containers, has a Customs Controlled Area and MPI Transitional Facility, as well as space for 168 refrigerated containers.

“Already we have welcomed major customers such as Westland Milk Products and The Warehouse onboard. We are managing hundreds of containers here every week and volumes have tripled since we opened.”

Source:  Cubix