Statement from the Maritime Union of New Zealand and RMTU Lyttelton Branch 

29th June 2026

Who is the Tōnui Consortium?

Comprises of DPWorld and 3 Papatipu Rūnanga: Ngāti Wheke (Whakaraupo, Lyttelton Harbour), Ngāti Tuāhuriri (Tuahiwi), Ngāti Taumutu (Southern Tip of Lake Ellesmere). Dubai Ports World is owned by the Dubai Royal Family and controls ports through out the world.

The Offer

The offer was 'unsolicited'. The Council-appointed board (CCHL) who oversee LPC and other pieces of infrastructure will consider it seriously. The unions and other community organisations have called upon council to amend CCHLs operating instructions (Statement of Intent) to clearly include the legal expectation that assets will not be sold or leased. The Combined Unions of Lyttelton Port are telling Council to be decisive and act upon their election mandate, reject the proposal.

Reasons for 3 Papatipu Rūnanga aligning with DPWorld

We are seeking to meet and understand Rūnanga. Ngāti Wheke has clearly expressed in submissions to council prior the importance of their leadership in setting environmental values of the harbour, they seem to have been having a similar relationship to LPC governance and management as the unions do, locked out of established partnerships.

Timeframes and Proposal Details

Reputedly only CCHL Chair and CE have seen the proposal, facts are scant. 31st July CCHL will discuss the proposal, unsure of process following.

Our Campaign Priorities

1. Amend the draft CCHL Statement of Intent, to include the CCC Expectations.

2. Build a partnership / relationship with Ngāti Wheke and the other Papatipu Rūnanga.

3. Remove Governance that doesn't recognise Mana Whenua, and The Combined Unions as strategic partners of Lyttelton Port.  

4. DPWorld must not enter New Zealand.