Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find the answer to your question on this page please contact us.
Cargo and container FAQs
What is the JMT RIA system?
The JMT RIA (Jade Master Terminal Rich Internet Application) provides detailed information about the status of your containers. You can see basic information about your container by clicking Guest on the login page. To access more detail and functionality you will need a user account.
How do I get an account for the JMT RIA system?
Email customerservices@portotago.co.nz to request an account.
When will my import container start being charged for storage at the Port?
Every import container has a free storage period of three days after the day of vessel departure. This free storage period will include a minimum of two clear business days. After the free storage period ends, any chargeable days will include weekends and public holidays.
To find out when your specific container will begin incurring storage charge:
- Determine which voyage your container arrived on using the JMT RIA
- Refer to the Demurrage Schedule to see when containers from that voyage will be charged. In particular check the Storage_Starts column for the relevant voyage.
How can I find information about my container while it is at Port Otago?
If you know your container ID you can use use the online JMT RIA system if you have an account. You can also contact Customer Services.
What do the stops codes mean?
Code |
Explanation |
| Customs Docs Imp. | This is a New Zealand Customs stop. This may be removed automatically by Customs or Port Otago can remove the stop on presentation of a Customs Delivery Order. |
| Customs Exports CEDO Stop | This is a Customs Export Delivery Order stop. This stop is applied to all export containers with an overseas discharge port as soon as it arrives at Port Otago. If the container has an overseas discharge port but is not showing a CEDO stop, this means the stop has been cleared. |
| Customs Held Cargo | Specifically used by Customs as required if cargo is held for other reason outside of Customs Import Doc, Customs Export Cedo, & Customs Scan Insp Exp/Imports |
| Customs Scan Insp Exp/Imports | Stopped requiring a Customs X-Ray/ Scan Inspection |
| Import Storage | Outstanding dues for storage by the party taking the cost by emailing Customer Services |
| Intended Offsite | Internal Terminal Stop on Full/MT Ctnr held for External Delivery |
| MPI 6 Sided Inspection | Cargo held until MPI 6 sided Inspection has been performed, normally applied by POE terminal. |
| MPI BACC | This is an MPI stop. It must be removed by MPI unless the Customs paperwork for the container(s) has the phrase "MPI clearance given to move from wharf to an ATF" in which case Port Otago can remove the stop on presentation of the Customs Delivery Order. |
| MPI Door Inspection | Cargo held for an MPI internal Inspection |
| Operator | Cargo held by the Container Operator for reasons other than Operator Doc, Operator Doc & Pin Stops. |
| Operator Docs | Port Otago requires notification from the shipping company before we can remove their stop. |
| Operator Docs & Pin | The Container Operator issues their delivery pin number to the Importer, who passes this on to their Transport /Carrier . We require the Transport/Carrier to supply the PIN to access the container from the terminal. |
| Repack | Cargo held for (FCL container) a container repack, normally used for full containers returning to Exporter/packpoint. To apply this stop notification must be received from the Container Operator. |
| Safety | Cargo or container is deemed unsafe, or has a health and safety issue. Internal Stop used by Port Otago. |
| SEP Export | Secure Export Partnership Stop, normally applied to cargo received from NON-Secure Export Partnership packpoints/exporters . |
| Surveyed | Stop is used in cases where Box operator requires an annual structural inspection due to expiry of ISO Certificates |
| Terminal | Internal stop used by Port Otago staff to hold the container on site. Container remarks will explain the reason for this stop being used. |
| To Be Inspected | Container/cargo stop, Inspection stop may be applied by either Port Otago staff or boarder control staff to import containers. This stop is removed once the inspection has been completed. |
How can I check the CEDO status for my containers?
Please read the following tipsheet for detailed steps to see the CEDO status:
Tipsheet - Checking container CEDOs on the Port Otago website.pdf
Container Weighing (SOLAS) and VGM
For information on Container Weighing, VGM, and VERMAS please see the following page:
Container Weighing and VGM at Port Otago
Employment FAQs
How does Port Otago’s Recruitment process work?
Port Otago currently uses an online recruitment system called QJumpers. We encourage all applications to be made online using this system. We track all applications across New Zealand to ensure we have a consistent and fair approach towards all candidates (including current employees).
What should I include in my job application?
For all applications you should attach your current resume (CV) and cover letter, and any qualifications applicable to your application.
You are also required to fill out a Port Otago Employment Application Form. The questions on this form help us to determine candidate suitability for specific roles. It is also used as a disclosure information form around fitness to work and criminal convictions. It is important that you let us know at the very earliest if you have any conditions that may impact on your ability to be employed. Port Otago is covered by the Maritime Security Act (2004).
What if I have trouble attaching my CV or application online?
If you have difficulty in attaching any part of your application it may be that your file is too large or is not in a supported format. To reduce the size of your files, try removing any pictures you may have in your CV and make sure it is saved in one of the following formats:
- Microsoft Word (.doc or .docx)
- Microsoft Works (.wps)
- Adobe Acrobat (.pdf)
- Text file (.txt)
How long will it be before I am contacted after applying for a job?
Once applications have closed we will review all applications received. We try to screen all applications within a few weeks of the role closing, though for some roles this may take slightly longer due to the number of applicants. We will notify you via email if there are significant delays.
Can I apply for more than one job at once?
Yes. The benefit of the online application process is that we are able to easily track multiple job applications. We can work with you to ensure you are able to explore each opportunity.
What are the different types of employment on offer?
- Permanent Full Time - No specified end date and working a minimum of 40 hours per week
- Permanent Part Time - No specified end date and working less than 40 hours per week
- Fixed term - An employment agreement for a specified time frame with a set finish time usually related to a special project.
- Genuine Casual - On call employment with no set or fixed hours where the employee is called in as required for work based on their availability
Can I submit an unsolicited application?
Yes. The application will be stored in the Talent Bank of QJumpers. Use this form to register your interest.
How do I know if my application has been received?
You will receive an email from the recruitment management system QJumpers. Please review carefully as you may have overlooked some important information around your application.
Will there be a phone interview? If so how should I prepare?
If we determine that you have the skill set we are looking for we may arrange a 15 – 30 minute phone interview to discuss your experience and expectations. This is a good opportunity for you to expand on your career highlights.
How will I know if I’m short-listed? Will there be an on-site interview?
One of the HR team will contact you by phone or email to confirm you are being recommended for an on-site interview. The HR person will brief you on how the interview will be conducted and who will be present at the interview. To prepare for the interview you will need to have a copy of the Position Description.
Once the interview has been completed we will keep you informed as to the next steps in our recruitment process.
Top Tip – keep checking your phone and emails after you've applied.
What happens if I am unable to attend my interview or want to withdraw my application?
You must contact the HR team as soon as possible. If you are unable to attend your interview due to unforeseen circumstances we will try to reschedule.
Will you carry out psychometric testing?
You may also be asked to undertake some assessments to measure your abilities relevant to the role. This usually takes place either before the on-site interview or at the same time as the interview. The type of assessment varies with the role you may be applying for.
How should I prepare for referee checks?
If you reach this stage of the process it is likely that you will be a preferred candidate and we will need to confirm your employment history, performance and work style.
We will request your permission to contact at least two referees. These referees must be your current or past direct managers.
Remember at this stage you will need to talk to your referees and ask their permission for us to contact them.
What other background checks will you do?
All roles will require a number of checks to be satisfactorily completed. Any offer will be made conditional on these background checks being completed to our satisfaction.
- Pre-Employment medical and drug and alcohol checks relevant to the role
- Pre-Employment check ACC Claims History
- Qualification check
- Driver's Licence Check
- Criminal Convictions Check (A speeding ticket is not a criminal conviction unless it is in conjunction with, for example, a drink driving conviction)
Sometimes all of these background checks are not confirmed until after employment has started. Please note that any information obtained will be checked with you for accuracy. You should be aware that if you have not given Port Otago information that is relevant to the background checks or your general suitability for employment or if you have provided misleading or false information, then this may be grounds for dismissal without notice.
Job offer
Once a decision has been made conditional on the background checks you will be contacted to discuss the details of the conditional offer.
A contract pack including all your pre-employment documents will be sent in hard copy for you to review, sign and return to the HR team.
What happens if I am unsuccessful?
You will be notified by email by the QJumpers system. In many cases, due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to provide individual feedback. All applications are kept online in our Talent Bank in QJumpers for up to 12 months.
Cruise Ship FAQs
Where is the Cruise Ship Terminal located?
Port Otago operates a cruise marquee alongside the vessel at Port Chalmers during the Cruise Ship season to accommodate passengers’ needs. The majority of Cruise Ships berth at Port Chalmers but smaller Cruise Ships can berth in Dunedin.
Please check the Cruise Ship Schedule to see where your Cruise Ship will be berthing.
How far is Dunedin Airport from the Cruise Ship Terminal?
The Dunedin International Airport is 40km from Port Chalmers. It would take approximately 45 minutes by car, taxi or shuttle.
If I arrive on a cruise ship, where can I find public transport?
Bus stops are situated on the main street of Port Chalmers, 100 metres from the berths. Please refer to the bus time schedules on the Otago regional Council (ORC) website.
Where can I find information about arriving and departing cruise vessels?
Please see the Cruise Ship Schedule published on this website.
Am I able to drive on to the Port Chalmers terminal to collect passengers within the terminal?
No - due to the Maritime Security Act 2004 and the Customs and Excise Act 1996, public access to the working areas of the port is restricted to those on Port business.
Am I able to contact my family member/friend who is aboard the cruise ship?
You will be able to contact your family member/friend if they have a cellular phone. There is no direct communication available with the ship itself.
Where do I meet people who are disembarking the ship?
At Port Chalmers there is only one passenger exit and this is outside A Shed. This is indicated by the signage outside the terminal.
Am I able to pick up family/friends from the ship itself?
No - due to the Maritime Security Act 2004 and the Customs and Excise Act 1996, public access to the working areas of the port is restricted to those on port business.
Safety and security measures mean that access to the ships is restricted to staff, passengers and crew only. Members of the public meeting passengers can do so outside of these working and restricted areas.
Where is the best place to view the arrival or departure of a cruise ship?
Any of the Port Chalmers lookouts will give good views of the ship.
Where can I find information on what to do in Dunedin and Otago?
When you arrive you can visit the i-Site on-wharf at Port Chalmers, or in the city centre in Dunedin (the Octagon).
For more information about what to do in Dunedin and what is on during your visit check out http://www.dunedinnz.com/visit/home
I'm a tourism operator, what do I need to do before I can access the Port and Cruise Ships?
Please see our Cruise Ship Operator Security Requirements page for relevant forms, procedures and guidelines.
General FAQs
How many ships visit Port Otago per year?
461 vessels called at Port Otago for the year ended 30 June 2016.
How much cargo moves through the Port?
For the year ended 30 June 2016 Port Otago had 172,400 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) and 1,408,000 tonnes of conventional cargo moved across wharves.
What are the major types of cargo?
Meat and Dairy exports account for approximately 62% of the Port’s exports.
What is the largest vessel Port Otago could accommodate?
The largest container vessel handled to date was the Maersk Detroit - LOA: 294.1m, Beam: 32.2m, Draft: 13m (but max draft sailed ex Port Chalmers 12.5m), TEU: 5500 TEU.
The largest cruise ships to have called at Port Chalmers so far are the Celebrity Solstice, (315m length and 122,000 gross tonnes) and the Voyager of the Seas (311m length and 138,000 gross tonnes). In December 2016, the Ovation of the Seas will become the largest ship to call at Port Chalmers. Ovation of the Seas is 348m long and 168,000 gross tonnes.
Port Otago Limited has commenced a two-year, $45 million capital works programme that will position it for the next generation of shipping. The infrastructural works programme, ‘Next Generation Port Otago’ will allow larger ships to access Port Chalmers while bolstering the Port’s service offering to exporters. For more information visit the Next Generation Port Otago website.
How many tugs does Port Otago have?
Port Otago owns three tugs: the Otago, the Taiaroa and the Arihi. Read more on the Port Otago Vessels page.
What is a Pilot and how do they board vessels?
A Pilot is a qualified vessel master whose job is to board a vessel prior to it arriving at the Port, and guide the vessel into Port safely. The Pilot is transferred to the vessel via a pilot launch, and boards the vessel using a certified ladder hung from the side of the vessel.
How many staff are employed by Port Otago?
310 full-time permanent staff.
How many cranes does Port Otago have?
Port Otago operates two gantry cranes at Port Chalmers.
When was the Port first established?
Please read about the Port's History.
When is the Port open?
The Port is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
What is the average length of time a vessel stays at the Port?
Log vessels approximately 2-3 days.
Container vessels approximately 10-16 hours.
General vessels approximately 2 days.
Cruise vessels approximately 10 hours.
Property FAQs
For information on Port Otago properties please refer to the Chalmers Properties website.