Port of Tauranga has cleared a significant hurdle in its bid to expand capacity, with an expert panel issuing a draft decision to approve the company’s fast-track application for the Stella Passage development.

The fast-track panel has proposed granting all approvals sought by Port of Tauranga for the project, subject to conditions, Port of Tauranga said in a statement.

The port and other parties now have the opportunity to comment on those conditions before a final decision is expected in early September.

The Stella Passage development would extend the Sulphur Point container berth by 385m in two stages and the Mount Maunganui wharves by 315m.

The project also includes reclamation behind the new wharves and dredging within the Stella Passage.

Port of Tauranga chief executive Leonard Sampson welcomed the draft decision, saying the expansion was urgently needed.

Port of Tauranga chief executive Leonard Sampson. Photo / Port of Tauranga

“This development is vital for the regional and national economy and is urgently needed as we are currently at capacity,” Sampson said.

“The Stella Passage development will bring widespread economic benefits, reduce costs for importers and exporters and unlock decarbonisation opportunities.”

Sampson said the company and its advisers would now review the proposed conditions and submit a response within the panel’s two-day deadline.

The development would be carried out within the port’s existing footprint by converting existing cargo storage areas into new wharf infrastructure.

Details of the draft decision are available on the Government’s fast-track approvals website.