Port Taranaki will implement updated maritime border protocols for shore leave from early tomorrow.

From 12.01am Saturday, 27 June 2020, a vessel must be at sea for 29 days since its last international port of call for crew members to be eligible for shore leave. The Government announced this week that a 29-day period would apply from 30 June, replacing the 14-day period.

“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have followed, and are continuing to follow, Government agencies’ protocols regarding the maritime border and shore leave,” Port Taranaki chief executive Guy Roper said.

“At all times we have acted responsibly for our staff and port users, and on behalf of the community at large.

“We understand some people in the community have had concerns about shore leave and this was considered when making our decision to introduce the updated protocols at this time.”

As is mandatory, vessels must continue to report the health status of crew before arrival and, if there are any concerns, shore leave will not be granted.
Mr Roper said under the new protocols, it was expected only one vessel a month would meet the criteria for shore leave.

“It’s important to remember that people working on ships are entitled to shore leave. Once adhering to New Zealand’s quarantine requirements, under the International Maritime Organisation they are allowed to leave the ship for their general health and wellbeing,” he said.