Maersk inaugurates its largest infrastructure investment in New Zealand, the Ruakura Superhub cold chain facility, enhancing the Golden Triangle’s freight and logistics capabilities.
Maersk, a global leader in shipping and logistics, celebrates the opening of its cutting-edge cold chain facility at the Ruakura Superhub, signaling an investment of approximately NZD 140-150 million ($87-93 million).
Positioned strategically in Hamilton, a key touchpoint within New Zealand’s Golden Triangle, the facility is designed to streamline end-to-end supply chain management, offering import, export, and cross-docking services. Hamilton’s central location, between Auckland and Tauranga, makes it a crucial link for 65 percent of the nation’s total freight flow.
Vincent Clerc, CEO of Maersk, emphasises the significance of New Zealand in the global supply chain, expressing enthusiasm for fostering sustained growth and long-term partnerships. The Ruakura Superhub’s ideal location enhances the supply chain by linking ports and increasing the volume of possible imports and exports while maintaining product quality.
Kylie Fraser, Managing Director, Maersk Oceania, notes the facility’s expansion into the cold store segment as an opportunity for customers to benefit from a state-of-the-art logistics landscape, transforming and simplifying supply chains in New Zealand. Fonterra, New Zealand’s largest dairy company, is among the key customers utilising the facility, along with BluePrint Global/NZ Grass-Fed Butter, Mega Foods, and Service Foods.
Maersk’s partnership with local iwi, Waikato-Tainui, reflects a commitment to community development, creating job opportunities and providing logistics and supply-chain training. The collaboration acknowledges the region’s historical significance in trade and aligns with the vision of Ruakura Superhub as a critical supply chain enabler.
The facility incorporates sustainable practices, limiting its environmental footprint with solar panels, CO2-based freezers, rainwater collection, and electric charging stations for vehicles. Maersk’s investment in the Ruakura Superhub underscores its dedication to efficiency, sustainability, and fostering economic resilience in the region.
