The Press FRIDAY, JULY 29, 1966. New Tasman Ships

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31124, 29 July 1966, Page 12

The Press FRIDAY, JULY 29, 1966. New Tasman Ships

Within two years a timetabled shipping network of roll-on vessels will be serving New Zealand and Australian ports and the trans-Tasman trade as well. The cry has long been for regular and reliable shipping services across the Tasman; and this is an answer. The Union Steam Ship Company has decided that Auckland and Wellington trade will justify equipping two ships to give them a pallet and container service. South Island shippers may be disappointed. To take advantage of the service they will have to use the “ branch line ” between Lyttelton and Wellington. At least they should enjoy savings through the simple transfer of pallet cargoes from the inter-island steamers to a trans-Tasman ship. It is clear from the enthusiasm with which the company is promoting this service that Lyttelton shippers have only to produce cargoes in the appropriate form and in sufficient quantity to share in the advance. Initially, the company might give Lyttelton some part of the timetable of the vessel trading with Wellington, although at first glance such a plan seems to detract from the regularity which is one of the main features of the plan. The plan should give a new look to Tasman trade; and many New Zealand exporters, especially of perishable goods and produce requiring swift or careful handling, will welcome the innovation.