Auckland Port’s Roger Gray Critiques ‘No Zealand’ Mentality

Ports of Auckland chief executive Roger Gray delivered a candid assessment of New Zealand’s cruise tourism challenges and the country’s prevailing attitude towards economic growth, referring to the nation as “No Zealand.” Speaking at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, Gray highlighted a significant decline in cruise ship visits, particularly from large vessels, and attributed this downturn to a culture of negativity surrounding new developments.

Gray noted that cruise itineraries are planned years in advance, and recent community protests against ships visiting iconic locations like Milford Sound have contributed to the shift. He referenced former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern’s comments, which described cruise ships as “petri dishes,” reflecting a broader governmental stance that was less welcoming towards the cruise industry.

In contrast, he praised the current coalition government for adopting a more positive approach. “If you wonder why I have a bromance with the Prime Minister [Chris Luxon], he used to be my old boss,” Gray remarked, underscoring the support he feels from the new administration.

The port has recently benefited from fast-tracked legislation, allowing for the expansion of the Fergusson North and Bledisloe wharves. This streamlined process has replaced previous public protests that hindered growth. Gray expressed frustration at what he perceives as a pervasive negativity among New Zealanders towards economic opportunities, stating, “There is plenty of business to be done—if only the public would stop protesting it.”

In terms of performance, Gray reported that last month marked the highest container volumes seen in nine years, driven primarily by coal shipments. He pointed out that approximately 8,000 to 10,000 vehicles are now arriving at the port each week, contributing to a total of over $90 million delivered to the city last year. This includes a $52 million dividend and $45 million in profit from the sale of shares in Northport.

The port’s expansion plans include a new cruise terminal, estimated to cost around $80 million, located within the port’s multi-storey carpark. This terminal aims to accommodate approximately 1,500 passengers per hour, with the goal of facilitating quick embarkation via an “air bridge” within nine minutes of drop-off. Gray asserted that the economic benefits of this terminal would surpass those of the delayed City Rail Link, which he described as “going to be a disaster.”

Concerns were raised by audience members regarding the new terminal’s impact on existing structures, including a rooftop garden created in 2020. Gray acknowledged the change, stating the area is now a solar array but reassured attendees that the new terminal would not detract from the port’s aesthetic.

Environmental health of the harbour was another point of discussion. Gray confirmed that the port continues to contribute $100,000 annually to a trust for research, but he also acknowledged the long-standing degradation of the harbour. “It has been abused for a century,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for patience as improvements are made.

Gray clarified that while the port strives to manage its environmental impact, it is not responsible for all pollution sources, noting, “When you overreach, you get into issues of liability.” Alistair Kirk, the port’s infrastructure general manager, echoed this sentiment, mentioning the visible signs of pollution in the area.

In closing, Gray recognized the privileged position of the port within Auckland and expressed a commitment to engaging with the community. “Now is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest … $400 million through revenue and debt,” he said, inviting public dialogue on the port’s future initiatives.