DHL Express has opened an expanded facility at Auckland Airport to cater to growing demand for trade in and out of New Zealand.

According to DHL, the new NZ$15.3 million (US$11.2 million) Auckland Gateway measures approximately 5,000m² and doubles the processing capability of the previous facility.

“International trade via imports and exports now comprises approximately 60% of New Zealand’s overall economic activity and is growing,” said Ken Lee, CEO of DHL Express Asia Pacific. “DHL Express is proud to facilitate trade for local businesses via our international network that connects New Zealand with over 220 countries and territories globally. The most popular trading partners for goods moving in and out of this Auckland-based facility include Australia, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, the UK and USA -- with all trade lanes showing solid performance in recent months.”

Some of the features include high-speed reweigh machines, telescopic extendable conveyors and 360-degreee CCTVs providing 24-hour monitoring.

Mark Foy, country manager of DHL Express New Zealand, said that the company is committed to helping Kiwi businesses export and import products to facilitate global trade.

“A key driver for this expanded gateway has been the growth in New Zealand SMEs shipping products internationally via DHL Express,” he said. “This expansion will assist with volume increases from all areas of the country, as innovative Kiwi businesses continue to tap into the global marketplace and reach international customers like never before.”