Scott Base Redevelopment confirms exit from port of Timaru land

Antarctica New Zealand today confirmed that it would not be using the land leased from PrimePort Timaru as part of the Scott Base redevelopment project.

Antarctica New Zealand acting chief executive Jordy Hendrikx said that findings of an independent review of the redevelopment project concluded that the proposed three-building project design and delivery was neither financially nor logistically feasible.

“We are very grateful for the support that PrimePort, the Timaru District Council, and Venture Timaru have shown for the project. However, the lease with PrimePort was predicated on being able to construct the new Scott Base facilities and deliver them via the Timaru port.”

“This option has been found to be in excess of the project budget and with too high a degree of operational risk.”

“This regrettably means we will be developing options for design and delivery that do not require the port land.”

PrimePort and Antarctica New Zealand said they would jointly explore alternative opportunities to better utilise the land.

However, until such time as alternatives are identified, Antarctica New Zealand confirmed it would continue to honour the lease commitments entered into with PrimePort.

PrimePort Timaru Chief Executive Phil Melhopt said, “that the port was disappointed that the Scott Base redevelopment project would not proceed in Timaru, but that they respected the tough decision that Antarctica New Zealand had to make”.

“I acknowledge the hard work that the PrimePort team put into securing the initial contract and preparing the Evans Bay site for the build”.

“We thank Timaru District Council, Venture Timaru and the Timaru community for all the support they provided us.”

ENDS

Background:

• The Scott Base Redevelopment was paused in 2023 as the construction of three interconnected buildings exceeded the $498 million budgeted.
• An Independent Panel was established to review the project. The report can be viewed here.
• The replacement of the Ross Island Wind Energy system continues as planned.