It's not credible Auckland port bosses were oblivious to the extent of safety problems at the company, according to the Workplace Relations Minister.
An independent report has found systemic failings at the company and calls for it to put safety ahead of profits.
Ports of Auckland has been linked to three deaths in three years.
The report, ordered in the wake of those fatalities, highlights potential under-reporting of accidents, with some workers fearing a backlash for speaking-up.
It makes 45 recommendations, including mending relationships with the Maritime Union, allowing the board to speak directly and freely to workers and introducing safety performance targets.
Workplace Safety Minister Michael Wood says the report is grim reading.
