KiwiRail is aiming to move containers from Marlborough that would otherwise be shipped via Port Nelson. File photo. Photo: Supplied
KiwiRail is increasing its capacity to move containers from Blenheim by rail to ease pressure on the roads while part of State Highway 6 to Nelson is closed.
KiwiRail sales and commercial executive general manager Alan Piper said the heavy road freight detour along State Highway 63 through St Arnaud meant higher roading costs and increased fuel consumption.
"We have been in collaborative talks with both Lyttelton Port Company and CentrePort seeking ways to increase the volume of freight we could move around the region safely and sustainably."
Its focus is on moving containers from Marlborough that would otherwise be shipped via Port Nelson.
Piper said rail transport is seventy percent more carbon-efficient than heavy road freight and reduces congestion.
KiwiRail is keen to hear from any businesses who are interested in moving their freight off the roads and onto rail.