South Port New Zealand recorded its strongest-ever cargo performance in FY2026, with total throughput rising 11.5% year on year to 3.96 million tonnes. The result was supported by strong growth across several cargo categories and increased vessel activity at the port.
Container traffic was a major contributor to the record performance. South Port handled 62,000 TEUs during the year ended June 30, 2026, an 18.5% increase from 52,300 TEUs in FY2025. Containerised cargo tonnage rose even faster, increasing 21.7% to 660,000 tonnes.
The growth reflects stronger trade activity across Southland, with agricultural, forestry and industrial cargo contributing to higher volumes. Cargo associated with the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter also increased, while project cargo linked to renewable-energy developments provided an additional boost.
Vessel activity increased significantly during the year, with 424 ship calls, up from 366 in FY2025. South Port attributed part of the improvement to its previously completed channel-deepening project, which has enabled larger vessels to access the port more efficiently.
Bulk cargo volumes increased 7.3% to 2.36 million tonnes, while Tiwai-related cargo rose 16.1% to 940,000 tonnes. The port also recorded higher container packing and unpacking activity, indicating stronger export activity originating from the Southland region.
The record cargo performance translated into stronger financial results. Operating revenue increased 13.5% to NZ$71.85 million, while EBITDA rose 15.7% to NZ$29.89 million. Net profit after tax climbed 21% to NZ$16.11 million.
South Port said the strong FY2026 performance demonstrated the resilience of its regional trade base despite continued uncertainty in global markets. The port serves a diversified cargo mix, including agricultural products, forestry, aluminium-related traffic, containers and project cargo.
Looking ahead, South Port expects FY2027 trade volumes to remain broadly similar to FY2026 levels. However, the company anticipates some pressure from the completion of major wind-farm project cargo, which made a significant contribution to the latest year’s results.
The port is nevertheless positioned for longer-term growth from developments in renewable energy, aquaculture and other large infrastructure projects. Continued investment in infrastructure and logistics capacity is expected to support Southland’s expanding trade requirements.
The latest figures strengthen South Port’s position as a key logistics gateway for New Zealand’s southern region, with record container volumes highlighting the growing importance of efficient maritime connectivity for regional exporters and importers.