WESTPORT

  • Latitude: -41.746
  • Longitude: 171.593
  • East Australia
  • Port in New Zealand

Address: Westport West Coast New Zealand

Web-site: http://www.westportnz.co.nz/

The Port of Westport, located in the Buller District of New Zealand on the West Coast of the South Island, is a smaller regional port primarily utilized for the export of local natural resources. Here's a detailed description and specification of the Port of Westport:

Location

  • Geographical Coordinates: Approximately 41.733° S latitude and 171.600° E longitude.
  • Proximity: Situated near the mouth of the Buller River, it lies close to the township of Westport.

Facilities

  • Berths: The port includes a limited number of berths, accommodating small to medium-sized vessels. The specifics of berth length and depth would need to be verified with the port authorities as they can change with dredging and maintenance efforts.
  • Cargo Handling: Primarily focuses on bulk cargo, especially the export of coal and other minerals from nearby mining operations. There are basic facilities for handling general cargo as well.
  • Storage: Storage facilities at Westport include stockpiling areas for bulk goods. There might be limited warehousing available for general cargo.

Navigational Information

  • Channel Depth: The depth of the navigational channel is maintained to accommodate vessels of a certain draft, which typically doesn't exceed 7 to 9 meters due to natural siltation and dredging limitations.
  • Tides: The port experiences significant tidal ranges and currents, which influence navigation schedules. Tidal information is critical and regularly updated by local maritime authorities.

Connectivity

  • Road: Westport is connected via road networks that link to other parts of the Buller District and beyond, facilitating the transport of goods to and from the port.
  • Rail: Historically, there has been rail connectivity for coal transport, though the current operational status should be confirmed with regional transport services.

Services

  • Pilotage: Pilot services are typically required for vessels entering and departing the port due to the challenging navigational conditions at the river’s mouth.
  • Tug Assistance: Tug services are available to aid with vessel maneuvering within the port.
  • Marine Services: Basic marine services such as vessel bunkering, freshwater supply, and waste disposal might be available, but for specialized services, consultation with the port authority is recommended.

Operational Insights

  • Primary Commodities: The major commodity handled is coal, reflecting the region's mining activities. Lesser volumes of timber, dairy products, and other regional goods might also pass through the port.
  • Annual Throughput: Being a smaller port, Westport handles a modest volume of cargo compared to major international ports. Specific figures should be referred to from the latest port authority reports.
  • Seasonal Variations: Cargo volumes and port activities might have seasonal variations based on mining output and weather conditions, which can affect river navigation.

Port Authority

  • The port is managed by a local port authority or a regional council, which oversees operations, maintenance, and development to ensure efficient functioning and safety.

Note: Detailed and current information about facility specifications, navigational aids, and operational statistics should be obtained directly from the Port of Westport administration or the relevant regional maritime authority for accurate and up-to-date data.

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