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Mobil plans to expand its fuel oil storage capacity at its Mount Maunganui terminal in order to meet rising demand for bunker fuel at the port of Tauranga [pictured].

The oil major intends to refurbish an under-utilized tank with a total storage capacity of approximately eight million litres, which will enable the supplier to meet the required standards for storing and handling heavy fuel oil and cater for the increasing demand for marine fuels from cruise vessels and cargo ships at the port of Tauranga.

The refurbishment project also includes modifications to the terminal's existing boiler facility and upgrading of the control room and operating systems.

The port of Tauranga is the largest in New Zealand in terms of total cargo volume, and the second-largest in terms of container throughput.

The port is located in a natural harbour protected by Mount Maunganui and Matakana Island, and is the only natural harbour between Auckland and Wellington offering good shelter in all weather.