The Greymouth Port

Greymouth is a river mouth port, and has served both cargo vessels and the fishing industry.

Since the first shipments of coal in 1864, the port has handled nearly 25.7 million tonnes of cargo, mainly coal and timber exports and general cargo imports. The port has shipped about 110,000 tonnes per year of coal and gravel to the North Island in 4000 and 8000 tonne capacity barges, towed by tugs in the past.

The fishing fleet is based in Erua Moana lagoon, which is the haven for 40 local fishing boats and up to 50 visiting boats at the peak of the Tuna season.

About 6000 tonnes of fish are landed each year and processed in two Greymouth factories or sent to Westport, Motueka and Hokitika for processing. The larger off-shore vessels also fish Hoki and Orange Roughy, while smaller boats fish inshore for mainly Sole, Flounder, Gurnard and Tarakahi.

The port entrance is between breakwaters and across a shifting bar, where bad weather can create conditions which must be respected by mariners. Beacons indicate the entry 'leads' or routes, and a flashing blue light at the entrance indicates hazardous conditions. Spectacular views of the port entrance, coastline and Southern Alps can be had from the breakwaters, which are accessed from Blaketown or Cobden.

The port is an interesting place to visit, particularly from the floodwall, the road around Erua Moana lagoon and the breakwaters, but care must be taken to keep away from the areas where vessel and cargo handling is taking place and hazardous areas indicated by signs. Historic photographs and artefacts of the port are on display at History House.

Visit the Greymouth Port website.