A new marine refit facility expected to create a boom in marine jobs and deliver significant marine and tourism spending has been confirmed for Wynyard Quarter.
It comes after the February signing of a Development Agreement between the city’s redevelopment agency – Panuku Development Auckland – and marine services company Orams. The new facility will feature a marine haul out and refit facility, commercial buildings and a residential tower on the northern end. It will target marine vessels up to 800 tonnes, which accounts for 85% of the world marine market.
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says the facility is expected to generate more than 500 jobs and as many as 200 apprenticeships.
“Currently, a piece of poorly-utilised land will become the heart of a thriving marine enterprises precinct, which carries on the historic presence of boat building in this area. Built in time for the America’s Cup 36 races, the precinct will benefit hugely from the refit work which will be generated during the challenge from visiting superyachts and vessels. There can be no better time to launch this facility.”
Known as Site 18, the facility is on the corner of Beaumont and Jellicoe streets, on a site adjoining Orams Marine Village. It will provide increased maintenance facilities for Auckland’s ferries, fishing vessels and commercial vessels. The majority of existing marine business on the site will be accommodated within the new development.
The development agreement is conditional on the approval of the New Zealand Overseas Investment Office.
Orams Marine Services Managing Director Craig Park says the facility will ensure the opportunity for wider industry and economic benefits won’t be lost to offshore competitors. The existing seawall will be replaced and contamination remediation works undertaken as part of the development.
