Awarua Quadrant to Anchor South Island’s Largest Freight and Industrial Ecosystem
Multibillion-Dollar Industrial and Logistics Hub to Transform Southland Economy
A new chapter in New Zealand’s industrial evolution is unfolding in the South Island, with the integration of Australasia’s largest planned industrial development and an inland port expected to create a multibillion-dollar logistics and manufacturing network. The development is forecast to create thousands of jobs and catalyse regional economic growth.
Positioned on 513 hectares of industrial-zoned land in Invercargill, the Awarua Quadrant is a purpose-designed intermodal freight and renewable energy precinct. This vast development will accommodate high-capacity manufacturing, warehousing, and rail-based freight operations, enabling exporters to access multiple South Island seaports with efficiency and scale.
Driving Regional Growth Through Clean-Tech and Export Infrastructure
Strategically located near renewable power sources, Awarua is expected to reshape Southland’s economic profile. The site is being developed to attract producers in clean technology, high-yield food processing, and advanced manufacturing.
The developer, Calder Stewart, says the development—roughly the size of 733 rugby fields—has a potential built-out value exceeding $2.5 billion, depending on future tenancy. With over three years of groundwork already completed, the project is now poised for activation.
Renewable Power Generation and Environmental Regeneration
The Awarua site is projected to deliver more than 50 MW of annual renewable energy output, generated through wind turbines and a combination of rooftop and ground-mounted solar systems. This clean energy will be a key drawcard for industrial users seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
The development will also become home to one of the nation’s most significant ecological restorations. Plans include planting over one million native species and establishing a 100-hectare wetland reserve and public recreation area.
Nationally Significant Investment in Infrastructure
This announcement marks the second major private investment in the South Island’s manufacturing and freight infrastructure within weeks. According to John D’Arcy, Calder Stewart’s lower South Island business development manager, Awarua’s integration with nearby deepwater ports, access to Manapōuri’s renewable power grid, and connectivity to rail logistics makes it a prime candidate to lead the region’s economic transformation.
Dual-Hub Export Strategy: Awarua and Milburn in Tandem
Awarua Quadrant is part of a wider ecosystem designed in tandem with Milburn Quadrant. The combined developments span over 700 hectares and will function as a unified logistics and export corridor. While Awarua will handle industrial production, Milburn will act as the inland port interface.
Future-Proofing Freight and Port Capacity
D’Arcy notes that today’s ships, often 100,000 to 180,000 tonnes, require significantly more container storage and turnaround support. Milburn’s inland port model is designed to address this challenge directly, easing coastal congestion and enabling efficient container returns.
Flexible Export Pathways Via Multi-Port Access
Mark Johnston, land and delivery manager at Calder Stewart, says tenants will benefit from access to a variety of South Island ports. With many manufacturers working across multiple freight providers, this flexibility allows them to align shipments with preferred carriers.
Strategic Interest from National and Offshore Tenants
Calder Stewart is already in early-stage discussions with a mix of local and international parties across multiple sectors. Johnston says Southland’s access to renewable power and raw materials creates a compelling proposition for high-value manufacturing.
Long-Term Vision for Regional and National Impact
Calder Stewart sees Awarua and Milburn as long-term infrastructure investments. Freight resilience, industrial output, energy access, and employment creation are all key pillars of the strategy.
Supporting Southland’s Vision for Economic Diversification
Chami Abeysinghe, CEO of Southland’s regional development agency Great South, says the Awarua project supports the region’s goal to attract clean-tech, engineering, aquaculture, and agritech industries. Its scale and location signal that Southland is ready for growth and investment.
Ready for Activation: Development Timeline and Next Steps
Awarua Quadrant is fully zoned for heavy industry. Calder Stewart anticipates that initial stages could be operational within 12 to 24 months of securing anchor tenants.
With construction-ready land, access to renewable energy, and direct rail and port connections, Awarua Quadrant represents one of New Zealand’s most important industrial developments for the next generation of exporters.
National Media Coverage and Further Information
This announcement has already gained widespread coverage in top national media outlets including RNZ, Newstalk ZB, the Dominion Post and other leading publications.
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