Container volumes at Ports of Auckland hit an all-time high in December.

Container volumes at Ports of Auckland hit an all-time high of 59,585 in December, compared to 52,599 for the same month last year (+13.2%).

The previous high was 58,484 in March 2007.

The port processed 81,772 TEU, compared to 72,241 in December 2007. This figure is also the highest recorded since March 2007 (81,915). March is traditionally a strong month for exports at the Port.

Managing director Jens Madsen says changes to ship calls have benefited Auckland.

"The pre-Christmas import season was surprisingly solid and we have also seen good volumes from Pacifica Shipping's new coastal service."

Madsen says new technology and operational innovations, like dual-direction straddle driving, are delivering significant productivity gains.

While satisfied with the December volumes and the first six months of the financial year in general, Madsen remains concerned about the outlook for 2009.

"January volumes are looking relatively soft and we are gearing the company to face the challenges of the global recession.

"We will be watching the beginning of the export season in February with great interest."