Frustration over having to jump through hoops to get new crane drivers.

The Ports of Auckland is pleading with the Government to let them bring in five crane operators from overseas to help ease congestion.

It's hoped that will help move goods more quickly, and prevent ships having to be diverted to Tauranga or Northland.

Ports spokesperson Matt Ball told Mike Hosking it's a maze-like process.

'We have to fill out heaps of forms and wait weeks, and it would be great if someone could help speed up everything."

Mr Ball says it wears down the hours you can work - they have the same number of people, but those people don't have the hours needed to get the job done.

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