Greener ground work at Lyttleton Port Company

Six robotic mowers and other battery electric devices will allow the Lyttelton Port Company (LPC)

to bring its grounds maintenance in-house to help cut costs, noise and carbon emissions.

LPC has signed a deal with outdoor power tool company Husqvarna that will provide robotic mowers and battery-powered tools to the port’s three sites – Lyttelton Harbour, MidlandPort at Rolleston and CityDepot at Woolston.

The company which runs the South Island’s largest port employing more than 500 people, is focused on reducing the impact of noise and the release of harmful emissions.

“LPC is committed to sustainability across our organisation, shaping how we ensure our business is prosperous, while taking care of the environment that makes our business possible,” LPC environment and planning manager Kim Kelleher says.

The Husqvarna battery range is less noisy, generates no emissions and has a very low energy consumption while providing the power and performance of a petrol-driven equivalent, Kelleher adds.

“LPC is very focused on being a good neighbour, and we are conscious we are part of a vibrant community. The energy conservation and reduction of energy costs and noise is supportive of our sustainability goals.”

Husqvarna dealer Shands Outdoor Power Canterbury will supply LPC with a range of battery products including six robotic Automowers, a ride-on lawnmower, blower, top-handled chainsaw, pole saw, trimmer and hedge trimmer.

“It’s a big one for us. The port is going cleaner and greener, and being able to supply battery-operated gear and Automowers is a great opportunity for us,” Shands Outdoor Power director Scott Carpenter says.

LPC facilities manager Paul Else says they were impressed by the Husqvarna GPS tracking and utilisation software that assists with productivity, security and maintenance reporting.

The Automowers can operate safely at night and in urban areas, having advanced anti-theft technology so if a mower is taken outside its geo-fenced area both the owner and dealer receive an alert through the Husqvarna connect app.

Furthermore, a stolen Automower isn’t compatible with other charging stations.

Husqvarna New Zealand general manager Colin Stimpson says the company is delighted to be helping the Lyttelton Port Company achieve its