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Port of Lyttelton

NZLYT🇳🇿New Zealand

Lyttelton Port is New Zealand's largest port by cargo throughput, located in Lyttelton Harbour on the Canterbury coast. It handles a significant volume of containerized and general cargo, serving as a key gateway for the South Island's imports and exports. The port accommodates a wide range of vessel types, including container ships, bulk carriers, and cruise ships, and features extensive cargo handling facilities.

Background
Lyttelton Harbour / Whakaraupō is a major inlet on the northwest side of Banks Peninsula, on the coast of Canterbury, New Zealand; the other major inlet is Akaroa Harbour, which enters from the southern side of the peninsula. Lyttelton Harbour / Whakaraupō enters from the northern coast of the peninsula, heading in a predominantly westerly direction for approximately 15 km (9.3 mi) from its mouth to the aptly-named Head of the Bay near Teddington. The harbour sits in an eroded caldera of the ancient Banks Peninsula Volcano, the steep sides of which form the Port Hills on its northern shore.
Loading current conditions…
Channel Depth
11ft
Tidal Range
2ft
Port of Entry
Yes
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Fixed, Mobile
Drydock
M
Repair Code
A
Terminals
1
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
UN/LOCODE
NZLYT
Country
🇳🇿New Zealand
Time Zone
UTC+13
Type
Port
Harbor Type
Coastal breakwater
Shelter
Excellent
Subdivision
NZ-CAN
Area
East Australia
Body of Water
Lyttelton Harbour/Whakaraupō
Latitude
-43.6070°
Longitude
172.7185°

LYTTELTON PORT COMPANY

LYTTELTON PORT COMPANY LIMITED

Cashin Quay, 2, Lyttelton 8082, New Zealand

www.lpc.co.nz
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How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Lyttelton?+
The approach to Lyttelton is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Lyttelton Harbour Lighthouse at 0.1 NM to the SSW. Other aids include Lyttelton Harbour (Gladstone Quay) (0.1 NM SSW), Shag Reef Range Front (0.6 NM WSW), Shag Reef Range Rear (0.6 NM WSW), Godley Head (4 NM ENE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Lyttelton on?+
The Port of Lyttelton 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 Lyttelton?+
You can track vessels near Lyttelton (NZLYT) 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 NZLYT on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Lyttelton?+
The Port of Lyttelton 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.