Major Milestone for Port Nelson’s Slipway Redevelopment as Concrete Pour Completes
Port Nelson’s slipway redevelopment reached a significant milestone this week with the completion of pouring concrete for the new hardstand area. This step confirms the project remains on track for its official opening in April 2026, delivering a nationally significant marine servicing facility in Nelson.
The redevelopment represents a significant investment in Nelson’s marine infrastructure and regional economy and has been co-funded by Port Nelson, Central Government, and Nelson City Council. This co-investment reflects the facility’s national significance and the strong partnership supporting its delivery.
Once complete, the project will deliver modern, future-proofed infrastructure designed to attract national and international marine maintenance activity to the region. Operating as Calwell, the facility will provide services including a slipway and hardstand area supported by a 550-tonne boat hoist. As an MPI-accredited transitional facility, it will enable vessels weighing up to 2,400 tonnes to be maintained locally, significantly expanding Nelson’s marine servicing capability and supporting long-term job growth and economic activity.
Throughout construction, a range of challenges have impacted delivery timeframes and overall costs. These include complex berth pocket construction, management of historic contamination, and broader cost escalations following the COVID-19 pandemic. Port Nelson acknowledges the impact these challenges have had and remains committed to transparency throughout the redevelopment process.
A detailed project review resulted in an expanded hardstand area to improve operational efficiencies and future-proof the site for increasing demand. In addition, the boat hoist capacity was increased from 400 tonnes to 550 tonnes, enabling the new facility to service a wider range of vessels, including port tugs from across New Zealand. These enhancements ensure the facility will deliver greater long-term value for the region.
As a result of these changes, the project cost has increased to approximately $29 million. Despite this cost escalation, the redevelopment remains a key strategic investment that will strengthen Nelson’s role as a national centre for marine servicing and support long-term regional economic growth.
Port Nelson, Chief Executive, Matt McDonald says while the project has presented challenges, it remains an important investment for the region’s marine future.
“From the outset, this redevelopment has been about building capability and resilience in our regional marine economy. The new facilities at Calwell will enable growth opportunities for local operators and attract new business to Nelson. We are committed to delivering a high-quality, future-proofed facility, and this milestone is a strong indication of the progress being made. We’re proud to see this milestone reached and look forward to the official opening in April 2026.”