Southland's export economy – aluminium, logs, woodchips and fertiliser – funnels through Bluff Harbour (NZ BLU), New Zealand's southernmost commercial port, once known as Campbelltown. Operated by South Port New Zealand, it handled about 3.21 million tonnes in FY2024 across bulk, breakbulk, container and project cargo, with container volumes rising to 51,900 TEU. A dedicated wharf and causeway serve the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter (Rio Tinto) at Tiwai Point, which produces over 330,000 tonnes of metal a year. The 12.5-metre channel takes standard bulk carriers and smaller container ships, with road and rail linking the port to the Southland and Otago hinterland. A temporary potline closure recently trimmed aluminium volumes while logs, woodchips and fertiliser grew. Shippers needing wider container connectivity also use Port Chalmers at Dunedin or Lyttelton.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UN/LOCODE of Bluff Harbor?▼

The UN/LOCODE of Bluff Harbor is NZ BLU. This international code identifies ports and logistics locations worldwide.

Where is the port of Bluff Harbor located?▼

The port of Bluff Harbor is located in New Zealand (South Pacific Ocean).

What is the size of the port Bluff Harbor?▼

Bluff Harbor is a Small harbor of type Coastal (Breakwater).

What is the channel depth of Bluff Harbor?▼

The channel depth of Bluff Harbor is 12.5 meters.

Location & Weather

-46.60000, 168.33333

Channel depth: 12.5 m

Transit time routes from Bluff Harbor

Auckland → Shanghai Auckland → Shenzhen Auckland → Guangzhou Auckland → Hong Kong Auckland → Tokyo Auckland → Busan

View all news

The information on this page is based on publicly available transport and infrastructure data. The logistics significance of a location may change. All information without warranty.

No partner at this location yet

Your company operates here? Be the first partner visible at this hub.

Become a visible partner