Swire confirms Pacifica service closure

AS FORESHADOWED last month, Swire Shipping has confirmed it will close New Zealand’s sole remaining coastal container service, operated by local subsidiary Pacifica.

“Following the conclusion of a thorough consultation process with our seafaring crew and shore-based employees, we regret to inform you that the Pacifica Service will cease operations at the end of July 2026,” Swire country manager Jan-Hendrik Hintz advised yesterday [9 July].

“This decision has not been taken lightly. Despite extensive efforts to explore options that would enable the service to continue, we have been unable to identify a sustainable pathway for Pacifica's ongoing operation,” Mr Hintz said.

The final voyage of the 1,740 TEU Moana Chief is scheduled to depart Auckland on 23 July and arrive in Lyttelton on 26 July, “marking the conclusion of close to seven years of dedicated service to New Zealand's coastal freight market”.

Swire had already indicated Moana Chief would depart New Zealand at the end of this month for requisite drydocking in Asia and a temporary replacement would be unlikely, given cost and vessel unavailability.

The initial June announcement saw the Maritime Union of NZ raise immediate concerns, with national secretary Carl Findlay saying the withdrawal decision was a direct consequence of decades of short-sighted transport deregulation and government indifference to the country’s strategic infrastructure.

Swire Shipping said yesterday it is continuing to engage in a potential sale of Pacifica.

“While this continues to progress, no firm offer has been received and management continues to negotiate with prospective purchasers. Swire Shipping wishes to emphasise that nothing is confirmed at this stage and this may not result in a formal offer for the business,” Mr Hintz said.

“While this marks the end of Pacifica’s service, Swire Shipping remains committed to supporting New Zealand's domestic freight sector. We will continue to serve customers through Cubic Transport Services, which has provided reliable freight and logistics solutions across New Zealand for more than 25 years.

“We extend our sincere thanks to our employees, customers, partners, suppliers, and stakeholders for their loyalty, trust, and support throughout Pacifica's years of operation. It has been a privilege to play a role in New Zealand's coastal supply chain, and we are proud of the relationships we have built and the contribution Pacifica has made to the communities and businesses it has served.”