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Port of Bluff

NZBLU🇳🇿New Zealand

Port Location

About Port of Bluff

Also known as: Awarua Harbour

Bluff is a compulsory pilotage harbor on New Zealand's South Island, situated at the entrance to Foveaux Strait. It serves as a key port for the region, handling fishing vessels and cargo ships. The port features tug assistance and a slipway for vessel maintenance.

Background
Bluff Harbour is a harbour and lagoon in the South Island of New Zealand, adjacent to the town of Bluff. The main port facilities are located close to the entrance from Foveaux Strait of a large natural inlet which includes a large, low-lying eastern arm, Awarua Bay, immediately to the east of the promontory which gives the town and harbour its name.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
13ft
Tidal Range
2ft
Elevation
-9999m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Unknown
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Fixed, Mobile
Drydock
S
Repair Code
A
Terminals
1

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
55400 →
GeoNames ID
2193143 →
Wikidata
Q19460586 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Identification

UN/LOCODE
NZBLU
Country
🇳🇿New Zealand
Time Zone
UTC+13
Feature Type
HBR (Harbor)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Excellent

Region

Subdivision
NZ-STL
Area
East Australia
Sub-area
Tasman Sea
Latitude
-46.5922°
Longitude
168.3414°

Terminals

BLUFF HARBOUR CONTAINER TERMINAL

SOUTH PORT NEW ZEALAND LTD

Island Harbour, 251 Foreshore Road, Bluff 9814, New Zealand

southport.co.nz →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Bluff?+
The approach to Bluff is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Stirling Point Lighthouse at 1.4 NM to the SSE. Other aids include Bluff Harbour Entrance (1.9 NM S), Dog Island (4.6 NM SE), Waipapa Point (21.2 NM E), Centre Island (22.1 NM WNW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Bluff on?+
The Port of Bluff is situated on the Tasman Sea in NZ. The area falls within the temperate maritime climate zone, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Bluff?+
You can track vessels near Bluff (NZBLU) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for NZBLU on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Bluff?+
The Port of Bluff operates in the UTC+13 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.