Port Nelson’s marine haul-out facility opens, marina facilities to follow
Photo / Tim Cuff
Port Nelson’s marine haul-out and maintenance facility, operating as Calwell, has officially opened..
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.
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.”
The redevelopment was co-funded by Port Nelson, Nelson City Council, and Central Government, administered through the Kānoa - Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit.