Port Nelson launches first electric dual-drive crane

Port Nelson has commissioned New Zealand’s first electric dual-drive mobile harbour crane, marking a milestone in its infrastructure and decarbonisation efforts.

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At a special event, Mayor Nick Smith officially activated the Liebherr LHM600E crane, joined by MP Rachel Boyack, iwi, EECA, and local stakeholders.

Port Nelson CEO Matt McDonald said: “This crane is an investment in the future of our people, infrastructure, and region, reflecting Port Nelson’s ambition to build a more resilient port for generations to come.”

The $17 million investment received $875,000 in funding from the Government’s Low Emission Transport Fund, administered by EECA.

Port Nelson invested approximately $2 million locally on labour, materials, and infrastructure.

The hybrid crane runs 85 per cent on electric power, cutting crane emissions, which account for 22 per cent of Port Nelson’s Scope 1 emissions.

The port also plans to retrofit an existing diesel crane as part of its broader electrification strategy.

Mayor Nick Smith stated: “It’s good that we are now leading with our port commissioning the first mobile electric crane and converting one of its older diesel cranes to electric.”

The crane is part of broader upgrades including Marlborough’s first inland port, a new pilot vessel, and slipway redevelopment to boost resilience, safety, and local economic impact.

Recently, the Port of Valencia received two Liebherr ship-to-shore (STS) container cranes.