Port Nelson’s marine haul-out facility opens, boosting regional economy

Port Nelson’s marine haul-out and maintenance facility, operating as Calwell, officially opened this morning. Representatives of the Crown and Kānoa joined iwi, industry and community leaders to celebrate the event.

The $29 million facility represents a significant investment in the region’s marine infrastructure, facilitating improved haul-out, maintenance, and vessel servicing capabilities to support the growing needs of New Zealand’s blue economy. The redevelopment was co-funded by Port Nelson, Nelson City Council, and Central Government, administered through the Kānoa - Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit. 

Calwell is expected to attract both national and international marine maintenance activity to Te Tauihu, contributing approximately $3.8 million to Nelson Tasman's GDP each year. The facility features a slipway and hardstand area supported by a 550-tonne boat hoist, enabling vessels of up to 2,400 tonnes to be serviced locally.

Port Nelson’s Chief Executive, Matt McDonald, says the opening reflects a long-term commitment to strengthening the region’s marine sector.

“Calwell is an important investment in our Blue Economy. It builds resilience in the regional marine engineering sector and creates opportunities for growth across both commercial and recreational marine industries.”

The upgraded facility improves efficiency, safety and capacity, creating new opportunities for local businesses, supporting skilled jobs, and increasing the region’s ability to attract and retain marine activity.

Nelson Mayor Nick Smith says,

“Council has invested, alongside Port Nelson and the Government, in this 550-tonne boat hoist and yard, as part of our economic development strategy of making Nelson the marine capital of New Zealand. Our city’s infrastructure for marine engineering will be further enhanced in July when the 110-tonne boat hoist and yard at Nelson Marina is completed.

This combination of facilities is about making Nelson the go-to place for servicing and maintaining the hundreds of fishing, aquaculture, recreational and other boats that use the vast oceans surrounding New Zealand.”

Tasman Mayor, Tim King, adds,

“This new facility at Port Nelson represents an important investment in regional infrastructure. While it strengthens Port Nelson’s role as a key marine and economic hub, its benefits extend well beyond the city boundary. Improved marine haul-out facilities will support Tasman’s economy and help create employment and economic resilience across both districts. This will also support and attract highly skilled marine engineers within the Nelson Tasman region.”
 
“This shared infrastructure reinforces the close economic relationship between Nelson and Tasman and supports long term growth for the wider region.”

McDonald acknowledged the challenges encountered throughout the project, noting their impact on timeframes and costs, but emphasised the importance of the investment and his pride in seeing the facility completed.

“The end result is a fit-for-purpose facility that strengthens regional capability and positions Nelson to meet the needs of a modern and evolving marine industry.”

Ends.

For further information, contact Jessica Ammundsen, Port Nelson’s Communications and Engagement Manager: Jessica.ammundsen@portnelson.co.nz / 0273040865