South Paray Wharf complete, opens in May
April 16, 2025 9:57 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Ezra Toara.
The South Paray Wharf project, a key component of Vanuatu’s inter-island shipping network, has officially been completed after more than a decade of planning and two years of construction.
The milestone was celebrated yesterday during a visit to the site by Vanuatu’s Deputy Prime Minister, Johnny Koanapo, and New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, along with dignitaries and representatives from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).
The South Paray Wharf is set to begin full operations in May and is expected to meaningfully develop Vanuatu’s maritime logistics, with climate-resilient and seismic-resilient infrastructure aimed at improving essential shipping services and supporting long-term economic development.
“The new South Paray Wharf will improve essential inter-island shipping services and support economic development through improved climate- and seismic-resilient infrastructure,” New Zealand DPM Peters said. “It has already played a key role in ensuring supply chain continuity following the December earthquake-related landslide impacts at the neighbouring international wharf.”
In addition to the new wharf, New Zealand also funded repairs and strengthening works on nearby tourism infrastructure along Port Vila’s Seafront.
Speaking during the official ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Koanapo described the project as a testament to resilience, partnership, and perseverance.
“On behalf of the Government of Vanuatu, I want to express our deepest appreciation to the Government of New Zealand,” Koanapo said. “Since its inception in 2012, the South Paray Wharf project has faced many challenges, but New Zealand has stood by us. This is not just a construction project—it is a strategic milestone that will boost inter-island connectivity, strengthen our shipping network, and contribute to Vanuatu’s long-term economic growth.”
He also acknowledged the invaluable support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which co-funded the project alongside New Zealand. Koanapo emphasised the role of the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management (MoFEM) and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) in ensuring the project’s sustainability and long-term service delivery.
“As we mark the practical completion of this wharf, we celebrate the power of resilience. Deputy Prime Minister Peters, as you return to New Zealand, we ask you to convey our heartfelt appreciation to your Prime Minister and Cabinet for their unwavering support and friendship,” he added.
DPM Peters echoed these sentiments, saying it was a privilege to witness the completion of a project that reflects years of collaboration between the Governments of Vanuatu, New Zealand, and ADB.
“This marks the final component of the Vanuatu Inter-Island Shipping Support Project,” Peters said. “We are proud to have partnered on this transformative initiative, which also included the construction of additional wharves in Lenakel (Tanna) and Litzlitz (Malekula). These investments demonstrate our enduring commitment to supporting Vanuatu’s infrastructure and development goals.”
Peters also acknowledged the high-quality work of construction partner Fletcher Company, praising their professionalism and dedication to delivering a resilient and functional wharf.
Representing the ADB, Ms Nancy Wells congratulated all parties for their steadfast commitment and shared vision.
“The completion of South Paray Wharf is a powerful example of what we can achieve when we work toward a common goal,” she said. “This wharf is not just infrastructure—it’s a lifeline for Vanuatu’s people, economy, and future.”
The South Paray Wharf project was part of the broader Vanuatu Inter-Island Shipping Support Project, approved by the ADB Board in 2011 and jointly funded by ADB and the Government of New Zealand. The project aimed to strengthen domestic shipping services and connectivity, particularly to remote islands. It also involved the establishment of a regulatory authority and the development of a private sector shipping scheme to ensure sustainable operations.
