About Us

What is the New Zealand Shipping Federation ?

An industry organisation representing New Zealand ship owners and operators, nationally and internationally.

When did it start ?

Founded in 1907

Why does it exist ?

"To continue to develop and maintain a competitive, safe and environmentally responsible New Zealand Shipping industry"

• To Promote the participation of New Zealand shipping in coastal, Australasian, Pacific Rim and other international trades where appropriate.

• To foster safe, competitive, quality and customer oriented New Zealand shipping services.

• To represent New Zealand shipping to Government, Parliament, cargo interest, sector groups, the general public and appropriate international organisations.

• To promote and maintain industry standards for safety, training and environmental protection.

• To provide a clearing house for information relevant to the New Zealand shipping industry.

• To encourage the development of viable employment opportunities for New Zealanders in shipping.

How Does it do it ?

REPRESENTATION

The New Zealand Shipping Federation is a Full Member of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), the international organisation of national shipowner association. The ICS is widely regarded as the principal voice of the shipping industry and has significant influence with the International Maritime Organisation.

The Federation is also a Full Member of the International Shipping Federation (ISF), the international employers organisation for shipowners.

The Intentional Labour Organisation (ILO) has specific sessions, every 8-10 years, devoted solely to Maritime matters. The New Zealand employers delegate to these sessions is normally the person nominated by the New Zealand Shipping Federation in conjunction with BusinessNew Zealand.

New Zealand shipping interests are represented by the Federation on Government Committees such as the Ballast Water Advisory Group, the Oil Pollution Advisory Committee and the ad hoc committee set up to deal with various issues relating to the importation of pests.

LOBBYING and ADVOCACY

The preparation and presentation of submissions putting forward the shipping industry's perspective on a wide range of issues is a key part of the Federation's work.

This is targeted not only at Government, Select Committees and Ministers but also coalition and Opposition parties, Ministries, Government Departments and Agencies, Port Companies, Regional and District Councils, and other organisations.

Submissions are made not only in response to proposals, but also proactively seeking changes and improvements,

The Federation regularly appears before Select Committees. It also appears, where necessary, at local authority resource management hearings and occasionally in the Environment Court. Litigation is generally seen as a last resort, but one which will be pursued when necessary.

LIAISON

It is also important to maintain good and effective working relationships with the relevant agencies and organisations. The Ministry of Transport and the Maritime New Zealand regularly consult the Federation at the early stages of policy development.

Regular contact is maintained with other agencies such as Busines New Zealand, Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics, Maritime Law Association, other shipowners associations, Marine Transport Association, NZ Association of Shipowners and Agents, Shippers Council, port companies, local authorities, other transport organisations, universities and polytechnics.

The Federation has a special relationship with the Australian Shipowners Association, particularly in relation to international matters. This relationship is increasingly relevant as issues relating to Trans Tasman trade arise on both sides of the Tasman.

INFORMATION

The Federation disseminates information to members from international organisations such as IMO, ISF, ICS and ILO. It also provides information from Business NZ and other ship owner associations.

It acts as a source of information for the media and the general public, and has a significant database of international agreements, conventions, resolutions and codes, as well as New Zealand legislation, regulations, rules and Polices.

RESEARCH

The Federation undertakes or commissions research identified by its Council as necessary or desirable. This often includes managing contracts with external providers.

FORUM

Facilities and services are provided to enable member companies to discuss matters of mutual interest, among themselves and with others.

The facilities include a Wellington office suite from which to do business. The usual office services such as phone, fax and photocopies are readily available, as well as computer and extensive reference material.