Import:

• In early 2024, Biosecurity New Zealand (Biosecurity NZ) will be launching a new version of the Container Checks Portal (CCP). This update is part of a comprehensive overhaul of the internal border systems aimed at upgrading the technology and establishing a more robust platform for the future.                                                                    The major change in this new version of CCP is the requirement for users to use RealMe for accessing the system. RealMe is an authentication service that provides secure access to various government online services. This change brings CCP in line with other MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) systems available to external stakeholders.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       The major change in this new version of CCP is the requirement for users to use RealMe for accessing the system. RealMe is an authentication service that provides secure access to various government online services. This change brings CCP in line with other MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) systems available to external stakeholders.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       While the basic functionality of the CCP will remain the same, there will be some changes to the system’s appearance and user interface. Biosecurity NZ will provide information about these changes as the launch date approaches.                                                                                                                                                                                  While the basic functionality of the CCP will remain the same, there will be some changes to the system’s appearance and user interface. Biosecurity NZ will provide information about these changes as the launch date approaches.                                                                                                                                                                        Biosecurity NZ is also working on implementing a feature that will allow larger Transitional Facilities to submit their container checks directly from their in-house container record systems.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Biosecurity NZ is also working on implementing a feature that will allow larger Transitional Facilities to submit their container checks directly from their in-house container record systems.

• The ongoing remedial work being conducted on the Fergusson Terminal pad at the Ports of Auckland is resulting in delays for container vessels that operate there. These delays are primarily due to the reduced capacity caused by the ongoing maintenance activities taking place on the terminal pad. As a result, the terminal’s ability to handle incoming and outgoing container vessels is impacted, leading to extended wait times and potential scheduling adjustments for shipping operations. It’s advisable for stakeholders and those involved in shipping activities at the Ports of Auckland to stay updated on the situation and plan accordingly to mitigate any disruptions caused by these delays. 
• The issue of overall container depot capacity remains unresolved, particularly in the context of restricted dehire slots at various large sites in Auckland. “Dehire slots” refer to the time slots allocated for returning containers to depots after they have been emptied and their cargo has been unloaded.                                                               In this case, it seems that there are challenges related to the availability of these dehire slots at several major container depot sites in Auckland. This shortage of available slots can lead to delays and inefficiencies in the process of returning empty containers, which can have ripple effects on supply chain operations, container movement, and scheduling for various stakeholders, including shipping companies, logistics providers, and importers/exporters.                                                        Addressing this issue requires coordination and collaboration among different parties involved in the container logistics chain. Finding ways to optimize and increase the availability of dehire slots, expanding depot capacity, and implementing efficient scheduling and management systems are potential approaches that can help alleviate these challenges.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Stakeholders should work together to identify long-term solutions to enhance container depot capacity and streamline the process of returning containers, thereby minimizing disruptions and improving the overall efficiency of container logistics in the Auckland area.
• It appears that there has been another increase in the VBS (Vehicle Booking System) booking cost at Metroport and certain container depots. This increase took effect in July. As a result of these rising costs, it’s regrettable to inform that the Container Booking Fee will need to be adjusted starting from the 1st of August.                                This adjustment in the Container Booking Fee is likely a response to the increased costs associated with the VBS booking system and other factors that impact the operations of the depots and facilities. The Container Booking Fee is being modified to reflect these changes in operational costs and to ensure that the services provided can be sustained effectively.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Such adjustments are not uncommon in industries that rely heavily on logistics, transportation, and infrastructure services. It’s important for stakeholders, including those involved in shipping, transportation, and logistics, to be aware of these changes and plan their operations and budgets accordingly to accommodate the updated fee structure. The key is to maintain open communication with relevant parties, stay informed about any changes, and adapt strategies as needed to ensure the continued smooth operation of supply chain activities while managing the impact of fee adjustments. 

Export: 

The ongoing move count restrictions are having an impact on the operations at the Lyttelton and Tauranga ports. These restrictions likely refer to limitations on the number of moves (loading/unloading of containers) that can be performed within a certain timeframe. As a result of these restrictions, there are several effects on port operations:

• • Late Changes to Port Rotations: The move count restrictions are likely causing delays and disruptions in the expected schedules of vessels and their rotations. Vessel rotations might need to be adjusted on short notice to accommodate the limitations on move counts, leading to potential delays in arrivals, departures, and overall port operations.
  • Late Changes to Port Rotations: The move count restrictions are likely causing delays and disruptions in the expected schedules of vessels and their rotations. Vessel rotations might need to be adjusted on short notice to accommodate the limitations on move counts, leading to potential delays in arrivals, departures, and overall port operations.
  • Late Changes to Port Rotations: The move count restrictions are likely causing delays and disruptions in the expected schedules of vessels and their rotations. Vessel rotations might need to be adjusted on short notice to accommodate the limitations on move counts, leading to potential delays in arrivals, departures, and overall port operations.
  • Late Changes to Port Rotations: The move count restrictions are likely causing delays and disruptions in the expected schedules of vessels and their rotations. Vessel rotations might need to be adjusted on short notice to accommodate the limitations on move counts, leading to potential delays in arrivals, departures, and overall port operations.
  • Communication and Adaptation: To navigate these challenges, open communication among all stakeholders is crucial. Importers, exporters, shipping lines, and logistics providers need to stay informed about the evolving situation and be prepared to adapt their plans as needed.

Overall, the move count restrictions are a reminder of the dynamic nature of the maritime logistics industry and the need for flexibility and contingency planning to manage unforeseen disruptions effectively.