Port of Auckland progresses in-water niche cleaning prototype

Port of Auckland has announced it is in the final stages of developing an innovative in-port biofouling solution to clean niche areas of ships without compromising environmental safety. This new technology will provide shipping lines and cruise operators with the additional confidence they need to operate in New Zealand waters, while maintaining our biosecurity and preserving New Zealand’s exceptional marine environment.

“Our solution provides certainty for cruise and shipping lines. It’s an additional service that we can provide to shipping lines in the rare instance where there is the need for spot cleaning. This new service will be effective in managing biofouling and is designed to meet biofouling requirements. It means we can continue to protect New Zealand’s incredible marine environment without compromising the reliability of shipping operations,” said Chris Mills – GM Marine, Multi-Cargo and Cruise.

The innovative approach to spot cleaning is a collaboration between Port of Auckland and New Zealand Diving and Salvage Limited (NZDS) and helps ships when spot or niche area cleaning is required by New Zealand regulators. Historically, vessels that have had problems with specific areas would have to clean offshore, often in rough, dangerous conditions. The new solution means ships can arrive in Auckland and can be safely spot cleaned while maintaining usual passenger or freight operations.

The technology is new, and Port of Auckland and NZDS are keeping the details of how it works under wraps while it seeks IP protections, the final commercial solution is fully developed, and it is approved as a biosecurity treatment. “The collaboration between the port, NZDS, shipping lines and regulators has been exceptional, and this progress is a result of people across the industry coming together to work on a solution that supports the economy and the environment,” says Mills.

Once approved, the prototype can be used for spot cleaning this summer season, before the cruise season gets fully underway. Meanwhile, the Port of Auckland and NZDS will continue to work with its partners on the approval of its final commercial grade solution.