New container vessel berth at Lyttelton Ports opens

The rebuilding of the first 57 metre section of the Lyttelton Port of Christchurch (LPC) Cashin Quay 2 wharf has finished, providing a second container vessel berth at the wharf for the first time since the February 2011 earthquake.

A number of vessels have used the new berth since it recently became available.

The rebuilding of Cashin Quay 2, following earthquake damage, is being delivered in stages. By late April the new wharf should reach 101 metres. The entire 230 metre long wharf will be completed by the end of the year.

"The new Cashin Quay 2 wharf is an important part of planning effectively for future growth and customer service," said LPC Chief Executive Peter Davie. "It will be a development milestone, increasing capacity for the Container Terminal, boosting the number of berths available and providing increased operational efficiency for customers."

An important part of the construction project has been driving more than 255 piles into the seabed and tying them to the wharf with steel anchor rods. This anchor system gives a high level of seismic resilience, providing a stronger structure than the previous wharf.

The main pile driving of 70 metre piles finishes this month, while driving the smaller 12 metre long piles will be completed by the end of July.

"The Port's geography can present a challenge to minimizing noise and we are grateful to the local harbour communities for their patience during the project as we focus on keeping project sound at an appropriate level."

"The new Cashin Quay 2 wharf is an important part of the long term plan to ensure we have a thriving Port that supports the Canterbury economy and the Christchurch earthquake recovery."