Local journalist Chris Lynch wrote an article about pollution in Lyttleton today. It reminded me that the council received a briefing on these issues just recently but I really think the boat has sailed.

With almost $100 million dollars of investment haven’t been made in the area we’re now going to unfortunately have to accept the environmental damage of a little bit of pollution while we claw back a return on the investment.

Air emissions from cruise ship in Lyttelton Harbour under investigation

https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/112526076/dolphins-contribute-to-11-million-rise-in-lyttelton-cruise-berth-bill

$67m budgeted

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/green-light-for-27m-naval-point-plan-closure-of-magazine-bay-marina-on-the-cards/VM2IBMOPLQFIDJEBIO2BOHLYLU/

$27m

Almost $100 million dollars of investment in the area.The reality is that the environmental boat has sailed. Some pollution now has to be expected. Shore power for these boats makes sense, however the port owner has discounted it. On the 25th of March, CCHL reported to the council on these issues. Elected members, who have an environmental mandate, didn’t ask questions or for more information such as the cost to upgrade the power infrastructure to the area.

I tend to agree with those who have suggested that it’s just green washing when I consider the volume of coal and trees (being exported for toilet paper).

https://christchurch.infocouncil.biz/Open/2025/03/ISCC_20250325_AGN_9984_AT.htm

Council were briefed on this issue 25 March 2025.There is not currently enough power capacity in Lyttleton to provide shore power.

The members did not appear very interested in following that up.