Close
Shipping schedules Marinas

Port Marlborough has offered to support EcoWorld Aquarium following the end of the Aquarium’s 10-year lease at the port.

The EcoWorld Aquarium business is a commercial tenant that occupies land leased from Port Marlborough.
Some time ago Port Marlborough and Ecoworld discussed a possible extension of the lease. However, Ecoworld sought different terms that were not acceptable to Port Marlborough and this has been consistently conveyed to Ecoworld. Therefore the lease has come to an end in accordance with its agreed terms. We are now trying to help the business vacate its premises, and assist with the sustainable rehoming of the aquarium’s marine life and other animals.” says Chief Executive Rhys Welbourn.

Mr Welbourn says the end of EcoWorld’s lease is unrelated to neighbouring infrastructure work for KiwiRail’s ferry service that is currently underway. He says the port is focused on working with EcoWorld to rehome its animals and would do so in consultation with Department of Conservation wildlife experts and MPI as required.

“Following the expiry of the lease, it is important for us to consider other uses for the land that deliver better cultural, environmental and economic benefits for the region and the community as a whole. We will be working with our community and mana whenua to identify options for the future,” Mr Welbourn says.

## ENDS ##

Contacts:

Connie Smith – Communications Manager – Port Marlborough connie.smith@pmnz.co.nz

03 520 3312