Newcastle on the MOVe

NEW Zealand’s MOVe Oceans has opened a direct link between Newcastle and its home country ports in a move the port says marks another step in its quest for trade diversification.

MOVe’s chartered vessel Brio Faith inaugurated the service today [27 October] when it brought containers and breakbulk cargo through Newcastle’s Multipurpose Terminal at Mayfield, “giving regional manufacturers, exporters and importers another pathway to market”.

Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody said the service demonstrated how diversification would deliver practical benefits for the Hunter.

“Diversification is about broadening the trade we handle and creating more opportunities for the Hunter industries and businesses that depend on our port,” Mr Carmody said.

“This new connection with New Zealand is a step towards growing containerised trade through Newcastle and giving businesses and producers across our catchment more choice in how they reach their customers and suppliers.

“Our region produces everything from mining equipment and advanced engineering solutions to food and agricultural products. Connecting these businesses with international markets through the port closest to them can help their competition and growth.”

For businesses trading with NZ, shipping through Newcastle offers an alternative to transporting freight to and from Sydney ports, Port of Newcastle said. This has the potential to reduce landside transport costs, avoid congestion-related delays and simplify logistics.

Mike Brough, general manager Oceans and International at MOVe Logistics, said the company had been operating its trans-Tasman route since 2022.

“The service is well-subscribed with bagged and over-dimension breakbulk cargo, along with project cargoes. The company is looking forward to servicing the Newcastle and New South Wales regional business community with breakbulk and container options. 

“We see this as a long-term, reliable option for importers and exporters in the New South Wales region,” Mr Brough said. “This is a stable and well-established trans-Tasman service supported by long-standing customers.”

Mr Carmody said the service provided a platform to attract additional trade and strengthen Newcastle’s role as an international gateway.

“Each new trade connection helps build a more diverse future for the port and our region,” Mr Carmody said.

“We want regional businesses to see Newcastle as a practical option for their imports and exports. Working with MOVe Logistics, there is an opportunity to build demand for this service and support further trade growth over time.”

PoN said it is actively engaging with regional manufacturers, exporters, importers and logistics providers to identify cargo opportunities for the new service.

Brio Faith operates on a monthly cycle and is also listed to call Bell Bay, Brisbane, Port Alma, Marsden Point, Tauranga, Lyttelton, Dunedin and Bluff. The ship can carry up to 640 TEU and has two 40t cranes for the handling of breakbulk and project cargo.