Import: 

• Ongoing industrial disruption at Australian DP World main ports and its impact on vessel schedules to New Zealand. Labor disputes, strikes, or other industrial actions can indeed have significant ripple effects on supply chains and trade routes, causing delays and disruptions.
• Such situations often involve negotiations between labor unions and management over various issues, including wages, working conditions, and benefits. The outcomes of these negotiations can have far-reaching consequences for businesses, shippers, and the broader economy.

• It seems there will be extended track closures affecting freight services in and out of Wellington by KiwiRail from December 25th, 2023, to January 7th, 2024. Track closures of this duration can have significant implications for the transportation of goods and may lead to disruptions in supply chains.
• During such closures, alternative transportation arrangements or contingency plans may be necessary to ensure the smooth flow of freight. It’s common for rail operators to communicate closely with their clients, shipping companies, and relevant stakeholders to mitigate the impact of such disruptions.
• If you are directly involved or impacted by these track closures, it would be advisable to stay in close contact with KiwiRail for updates and information on contingency measures. Additionally, local news sources and industry publications may provide more details on how this situation is unfolding and its broader implications for logistics and transportation in the region.

• The scheduled block of line shutdown for maintenance between Metroport and Port of Tauranga from December 30th, 2023, to January 3rd, 2024, will likely have a notable impact on container movements during that period. Such planned maintenance is common in the transportation industry to ensure the safety and efficiency of rail infrastructure.
• During this shutdown, it’s expected that container movements to and from this specific route will be temporarily halted. The reduction in services two days before and after the shutdown is likely part of the preparation and recovery process.
• For businesses and entities involved in the transport and logistics chain along this route, it’s crucial to plan ahead, make necessary adjustments to schedules, and communicate effectively with clients and partners to manage expectations during this period.
• As with any significant service interruptions, staying informed through updates from the rail operator, local news sources, or industry communications will be essential to navigate the situation effectively.

• It seems that as of December 11, 2023, there has been a change in the steel research levy in accordance with the Heavy Engineering Research Levy Act 1998. The adjustment involves an increase in levy rates from $10 per tonne to $20 per tonne for all items listed in Schedule 2 of the mentioned act.
• The steel research levy is typically imposed to fund research and development activities in the steel industry. This increase in levy rates suggests that there might be a need for additional funding to support ongoing or new research initiatives, or it could be a response to changes in the industry landscape.
• For businesses and individuals involved in the steel industry or those affected by these changes, it would be important to be aware of the new levy rates and incorporate them into financial planning and budgeting. Additionally, staying informed about the specific projects or initiatives that the levy funds could provide insights into the industry’s direction and priorities.