News / Congestion hits Auckland, posing a 'multi-million dollar' problem for shippers

Delays at the New Zealand port of Auckland have become a “multi-million dollar problem” for the nation’s shippers.

Rocketing demand for containers, staff shortages and a half-finished automation programme have combined to create a “perfect storm” of delays, exporters say.

Local reports claim Ports of Auckland Ltd (POAL) is only using a third of its crane capacity and has been unable to fully use its new automated straddle carriers, because overseas engineers were blocked from entering the country after its borders closed.

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