Port Chalmers is the birthplace of New Zealand's modern export trade.  It was there, in February 1882, that New Zealand's first cargo of frozen meat left for Great Britain on the refrigerated ship Dunedin.  When it arrived in London 98 days later, with the meat still in excellent condition, it heralded the beginning of New Zealand's export status.  To this day, Port Otago Ltd and Port Chalmers remain at the forefront of New Zealand's export trade.