NavSight (NSH) 10-Q 8 May 14 2014 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

DEI_Document

DEI Document	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Apr. 30, 2014
Document Information [Abstract]	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'NuStar GP Holdings, LLC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001223786	'
Trading Symbol	'nsh	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q1	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	42,656,973

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Assets	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,177	$1,603
Receivable from related parties	13,859	9,617
Income tax receivable	1,198	1,198
Other receivables	506	77
Deferred income tax assets, net	330	1,047
Other current assets	223	245
Total current assets	17,293	13,787
Investment in NuStar Energy L.P.	348,584	357,456
Long-term receivable from related party	39,441	41,139
Total assets	405,318	412,382
Liabilities and Members' Equity	'	'
Short-term debt	26,000	26,000
Accounts payable	397	324
Accrued compensation expense	15,960	12,318
Accrued liabilities	536	536
Taxes other than income tax	139	1,240
Total current liabilities	43,032	40,418
Deferred income tax liabilities, net	2,620	3,671
Long-term liabilities	20,145	18,307
Commitments and contingencies (Note 8)	'	'
Members' equity	331,528	341,045
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	7,993	8,941
Total members' equity	339,521	349,986
Total liabilities and members' equity	$405,318	$412,382

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)	'	'
Equity in earnings (loss) of NuStar Energy L.P.	$14,390	$12,144
General and administrative expenses	-872	-800
Other income (expense), net	17	81
Interest expense, net	-222	-173
Income (loss) before income tax (expense) benefit	13,313	11,252
Income tax (expense) benefit	333	-177
Net income (loss)	13,646	11,075
Comprehensive income (loss)	$12,698	$11,272
Basic net income (loss) per unit	$0.32	$0.26
Diluted net income (loss) per unit	$0.32	$0.26
Weighted-average number of basic units outstanding	42,656,281	42,605,668
Weighted-average number of diluted units outstanding	42,656,281	42,605,668

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) Parenthetical (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'
Diluted net income (loss) per unit	$0.32	$0.26

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:	'	'
Net income (loss)	$13,646	$11,075
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Equity in loss (earnings) of NuStar Energy L.P.	-14,390	-12,144
Distributions of equity in earnings from NuStar Energy L.P.	14,390	12,144
(Gain) loss on sale of NuStar Energy L.P. limited partner units in connection with unit-based compensation	-17	-81
Provision (benefit) for deferred income tax	-334	201
Changes in current assets and liabilities (Note 6)	-2,335	-3,783
(Increase) decrease in long-term receivable from related party	1,278	-714
Increase in long-term liabilities	1,838	4,922
Other, net	77	45
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	14,153	11,665
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:	'	'
Distributions in excess of equity in earnings from NuStar Energy L.P.	9,570	11,917
Investment in NuStar Energy L.P.	-1,363	0
Proceeds from sale of NuStar Energy L.P. units in connection with unit-based compensation	463	959
Net cash provided by investing activities	8,670	12,876
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:	'	'
Repayment of short-term debt	0	-1,500
Distributions to unitholders	-23,249	-23,223
Net cash used in financing activities	-23,249	-24,723
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	-426	-182
Cash and cash equivalents as of the beginning of the period	1,603	2,597
Cash and cash equivalents as of the end of the period	$1,177	$2,415

ORGANIZATION_AND_BASIS_OF_PRES

ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION	'
	ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
	Organization
	NuStar GP Holdings, LLC (NuStar GP Holdings) (NYSE: NSH) is a publicly held Delaware limited liability company. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “NuStar GP Holdings,” “we,” “our” and “us” are used in this report to refer to NuStar GP Holdings, LLC, to one or more of our consolidated subsidiaries or to all of them taken as a whole.
	We have no operations or sources of income or cash flows other than our investment in NuStar Energy L.P. (NuStar Energy) (NYSE: NS). As of March 31, 2014, we owned approximately 14.9% of NuStar Energy, consisting of the following:
	•	the 2% general partner interest;
	•	100% of the incentive distribution rights (IDR) issued by NuStar Energy, which entitle us to receive increasing percentages of the cash distributed by NuStar Energy, currently at the maximum percentage of 23%; and
	•	10,244,845 common units of NuStar Energy representing a 12.9% limited partner interest.
	NuStar Energy is a publicly held Delaware limited partnership engaged in the transportation of petroleum products and anhydrous ammonia, the terminalling and storage of petroleum products and the marketing of petroleum products. NuStar Energy has terminal and storage facilities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, the Netherlands, including St. Eustatius in the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and Turkey.
	Basis of Presentation
	These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of NuStar GP Holdings and subsidiaries in which it has a controlling interest. Intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
	We account for our ownership interest in NuStar Energy using the equity method. Therefore, our financial results reflect a portion of NuStar Energy’s net income based on our ownership interest in NuStar Energy. We have no separate operating activities apart from those conducted by NuStar Energy and therefore generate no revenues from operations.
	These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete consolidated financial statements. In the opinion of management, all adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. All such adjustments are of a normal recurring nature unless otherwise indicated. Financial information for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013 included in these Condensed Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements is derived from our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014. The consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2013 has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements as of that date. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.

INVESTMENT_IN_NUSTAR_ENERGY

INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]	'
INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY	'
	INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY
	Summary Financial Information
	Condensed consolidated financial information reported by NuStar Energy is presented below (in thousands of dollars):
		March 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Unaudited)
	Balance Sheet Information:
	Current assets	$	509,739		$	633,549
	Property, plant and equipment, net	3,320,118			3,310,653
	Goodwill	617,429			617,429
	Other non-current assets	467,348			470,555
	Total assets	$	4,914,634		$	5,032,186
	Current liabilities	$	281,405		$	392,572
	Long-term debt	2,710,117			2,655,553
	Other non-current liabilities	79,628			80,267
	Total liabilities	3,071,150			3,128,392
	NuStar Energy partners’ equity	1,842,378			1,902,136
	Noncontrolling interest	1,106			1,658
	Total liabilities and partners’ equity	$	4,914,634		$	5,032,186
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Statement of Comprehensive Income Information:
	Revenues	$	849,213		$	998,186
	Operating income	$	81,103		$	63,358
	Income from continuing operations	$	42,996		$	19,599
	(Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax	(3,359		)	4,805
	Net income	$	39,637		$	24,404
	Other
	Our investment in NuStar Energy reconciles to NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity as follows:
		March 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity	$	1,842,378		$	1,902,136
	NuStar GP Holdings’ ownership interest in NuStar Energy	14.9		%	14.9		%
	NuStar GP Holdings’ share of NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity	274,514			283,418
	Step-up in basis related to NuStar Energy’s assets and liabilities,	74,070			74,038
	including equity method goodwill, and other
	Investment in NuStar Energy	$	348,584		$	357,456

RELATED_PARTY_TRANSACTIONS

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS	'
	RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
	We had a receivable from related parties of $13.9 million and $9.6 million as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, mainly relating to payroll, employee benefit plans and unit-based compensation for our employees providing services to NuStar Energy and NuStar Energy’s joint ventures. We also had a long-term receivable from related party of $39.4 million and $41.1 million as of March 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, related to amounts payable for retiree medical benefits and other post-employment benefits. The following table summarizes information pertaining to related party transactions:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014		2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Expenses for payroll, employee benefit plans and unit-based compensation	$	44,337	$	52,905
	Other expenses	$	94	$	93
	NuStar Energy
	GP Services Agreement. NuStar Energy and NuStar GP, LLC, our wholly owned subsidiary, entered into a services agreement, effective January 1, 2008 (the GP Services Agreement). The GP Services Agreement provides that NuStar GP, LLC will furnish administrative and certain operating services necessary to conduct the business of NuStar Energy. All employees providing services to both NuStar GP Holdings and NuStar Energy are employed by NuStar GP, LLC; therefore, NuStar Energy reimburses NuStar GP, LLC for all employee costs, other than the expenses allocated to NuStar GP Holdings (the Holdco Administrative Services Expense). The GP Services Agreement will terminate on December 31, 2014, renewing automatically every two years unless terminated by either party upon six months’ prior written notice. The aggregate amounts of Holdco Administrative Services Expense that we incurred were $0.4 million for each of the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013.
	Asphalt JV
	On February 26, 2014, NuStar Energy sold its remaining 50% ownership interest in NuStar Asphalt LLC (Asphalt JV) to Lindsay Goldberg LLC (Lindsay Goldberg), a private investment firm (the Asphalt JV Sale). Lindsay Goldberg now owns 100% of Asphalt JV. Effective February 27, 2014, NuStar Asphalt LLC changed its name to Axeon Specialty Products LLC. As a result of the Asphalt JV Sale, we ceased reporting transactions between us and Asphalt JV as related party transactions in consolidated financial statements on February 26, 2014.
	Asphalt JV Services Agreement. In connection with the formation of Asphalt JV, NuStar GP, LLC entered into a services agreement with Asphalt JV, effective September 28, 2012 (the Asphalt JV Services Agreement). The Asphalt JV Services Agreement provides that NuStar GP, LLC will furnish certain administrative and other operating services necessary to conduct the business of Asphalt JV. Asphalt JV will compensate us for these services through an annual fee totaling $10.0 million, subject to adjustment based on the annual merit increase percentage applicable to our employees for the most recently completed contract year. Effective upon the Asphalt JV Sale, the Asphalt JV Services Agreement was amended and will terminate on June 30, 2014, with the option to extend the term for an additional three months for certain services with 30 days prior written notice. Asphalt JV provided written notice to reduce the level of services that we provide to Asphalt JV to 63% of the original service level as of March 31, 2014. The aggregate amounts of the Asphalt JV Services Agreement charged were $1.6 million and $2.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

DISTRIBUTIONS_FROM_NUSTAR_ENER

DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY [Abstract]	'
DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY	'
	DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY
	The following table reflects the allocation of NuStar Energy’s cash distributions earned for the periods indicated among its general and limited partners:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Unit Data)
	General partner interest	$	1,961		$	1,961
	General partner incentive distribution	10,805			10,805
	Total general partner distribution	12,766			12,766
	Limited partner distribution	11,211			11,280
	Total distributions to NuStar GP Holdings	23,977			24,046
	Public unitholders’ distributions	74,074			74,005
	Total cash distributions	$	98,051		$	98,051
	Cash distributions per unit applicable to limited partners	$	1.095		$	1.095
	The following table summarizes information related to NuStar Energy’s quarterly cash distributions:
	Quarter Ended		Cash Distributions Per Unit			Total Cash Distributions (Thousands of Dollars)		Record Date	Payment Date
	March 31, 2014 (a)		$	1.095		$	98,051	May 7, 2014	May 12, 2014
	31-Dec-13		$	1.095		$	98,051	February 10, 2014	February 14, 2014
	(a)	The distribution was announced on April 23, 2014.

FAIR_VALUE_MEASUREMENTS

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS	'
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	We segregate the inputs used in measuring fair value into three levels: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable, such as quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists.
	The following liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
		March 31, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Accrued compensation expense:
	NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	$	9,007	$	—	$	—	$	9,007
	Total	$	9,007	$	—	$	—	$	9,007
		December 31, 2013
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Accrued compensation expense:
	NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	$	6,224	$	—	$	—	$	6,224
	Total	$	6,224	$	—	$	—	$	6,224
	The fair value of our accrued compensation expense for NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards is determined using the NuStar Energy unit price at the reporting date.
	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	We recognize cash equivalents, receivables, payables and short-term debt in our consolidated balance sheets at their carrying amounts. The fair values of these financial instruments approximate their carrying amounts. The fair value of our short-term debt would fall in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

STATEMENTS_OF_CASH_FLOWS

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]	'
STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS	'
	STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
	Changes in current assets and current liabilities were as follows:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Decrease (increase) in current assets:
	Receivable from related parties	$	(4,497	)	$	(6,298	)
	Income tax receivable	—			(23		)
	Other receivables	(429		)	(158		)
	Other current assets	(23		)	15
	Increase (decrease) in current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	73			(601		)
	Accrued compensation expense	3,642			4,315
	Accrued liabilities	—			(41		)
	Taxes other than income tax	(1,101		)	(992		)
	Changes in current assets and current liabilities	$	(2,335	)	$	(3,783	)
	Cash flows related to interest and income tax were as follows:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Cash paid for interest	$	172		$	96
	Cash paid for income tax	$	1		$	—

CREDIT_FACILITY

CREDIT FACILITY	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Line of Credit Facility [Abstract]	'
CREDIT FACILITY	'
	CREDIT FACILITY
	Our 364-day revolving credit agreement dated June 28, 2013 matures on June 27, 2014 and has a borrowing capacity of up to $40.0 million, of which, up to $10.0 million may be available for letters of credit (the 2013 Credit Facility). Our obligations under the 2013 Credit Facility are guaranteed by Riverwalk Holdings, LLC (Riverwalk), a wholly owned subsidiary. Riverwalk pledged 1,792,918 NuStar Energy units that it owns to secure its guarantee.
	As of March 31, 2014, we had outstanding borrowings of $26.0 million and availability of $14.0 million for borrowings under the 2013 Credit Facility. Interest on the 2013 Credit Facility is based upon, at our option, either an alternative base rate or a LIBOR-based rate. As of March 31, 2014, the weighted-average interest rate was 2.2%.
	The terms of the 2013 Credit Facility require NuStar Energy to maintain, as of the end of each rolling period, which consists of any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters, a consolidated debt coverage ratio not to exceed 5.0-to-1.0. If NuStar Energy consummates an acquisition for an aggregate net consideration of at least $50.0 million, the maximum consolidated debt coverage ratio will increase to 5.5-to-1.0 for two rolling periods. As of March 31, 2014, NuStar Energy’s consolidated debt coverage ratio was 4.4x. We are also required to receive cash distributions of at least $12.5 million in respect of our ownership interests in NuStar Energy each fiscal quarter. Our management believes that we are in compliance with the covenants of the 2013 Credit Facility as of March 31, 2014.

COMMITMENTS_AND_CONTINGENCIES

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES	'
	COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
	Contingencies
	We are not currently a party to any material legal proceedings and have not recorded any accruals for loss contingencies. NuStar Energy is a party to claims and legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of its business, which it believes are not material to its financial position or results of operations. However, due to the inherent uncertainty of litigation, there can be no assurance that the resolution of any particular claim or proceeding would not have a material adverse effect on NuStar Energy’s results of operations and ability to pay distributions, which would impact our results of operations and ability to pay distributions.

MEMBERS_EQUITY

MEMBERS' EQUITY	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Members' Equity [Abstract]	'
MEMBERS' EQUITY	'
	MEMBERS’ EQUITY
	The following table presents changes to our members’ equity (in thousands of dollars):
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	349,986
	Net income	13,646
	Distributions to unitholders	(23,249		)
	Other comprehensive loss	(948		)
	Unit-based compensation	86
	Balance as of March 31, 2014	$	339,521
	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	The following table presents balances of and changes in accumulated other comprehensive income by component:
		Share of NuStar Energy’s Other Comprehensive Loss			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Adjustments			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Balance as of January 1, 2014	$	(9,417	)	$	18,358		$	8,941
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassification adjustments	(219		)	—			(219		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (a)	—			(729		)	(729		)
	Other comprehensive loss	(219		)	(729		)	(948		)
	Balance as of March 31, 2014	$	(9,636	)	$	17,629		$	7,993
	(a)	We recognized the net loss reclassified into income as general and administrative expenses. These amounts are components of net periodic pension cost and NuStar Energy reimburses us for these employee costs. See Note 11 for details of our net periodic pension cost.
	Cash Distributions
	The following table summarizes our cash distributions applicable to the period in which the distributions were earned:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Unit Data)
	Cash distributions per unit	$	0.545		$	0.545
	Total cash distributions	$	23,248		$	23,222
	The following table summarizes information related to our quarterly cash distributions:
	Quarter Ended		Cash Distributions Per Unit			Total Cash Distributions (Thousands of Dollars)			Record Date		Payment Date
	March 31, 2014 (a)		$	0.545		$	23,248		May 7, 2014		May 15, 2014
	31-Dec-13		$	0.545		$	23,249		February 10, 2014		February 18, 2014
	(a)	The distribution was announced on April 23, 2014.

NET_INCOME_PER_UNIT

NET INCOME PER UNIT	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
NET INCOME (LOSS) PER UNIT	'
	NET INCOME PER UNIT
	We treat restricted units granted under our long-term incentive plan as participating securities in computing net income per unit pursuant to the two-class method. The computation of diluted net income per unit for the three months ended March 31, 2014 excludes outstanding options to purchase NuStar GP Holdings units, as the exercise price exceeded the average market price and their effect would have been anti-dilutive. The outstanding options to purchase NuStar GP Holdings units totaled 289,100 as of March 31, 2014.

EMPLOYEE_BENEFIT_PLANS

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract]	'
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS	'
	EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
	The components of net periodic benefit cost related to our defined benefit plans were as follows:
		Pension Plans (a)						Other Postretirement
								Benefit Plans
		2014			2013			2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	For the three months ended March 31:
	Components of net periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	2,012		$	4,080		$	94		$	293
	Interest cost	1,057			1,259			93			235
	Expected return on assets	(1,144		)	(1,134		)	—			—
	Amortization of prior service credit	(516		)	(10		)	(286		)	(50		)
	Amortization of net loss	45			518			28			52
	Net periodic benefit cost before other charges	1,454			4,713			(71		)	530
	Other charges (b)	—			180			—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,454		$	4,893		$	(71	)	$	530
	(a)	Includes amounts related to the pension plan, the excess pension plan and the supplemental executive retirement plan.
	(b)	Other charges in 2013 relate to NuStar Energy’s sale of its fuels refinery in San Antonio, Texas and related assets on January 1, 2013.

INVESTMENT_IN_NUSTAR_ENERGY_Ta

INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]	'
NuStar Energy's Balance Sheet Information	'
	Condensed consolidated financial information reported by NuStar Energy is presented below (in thousands of dollars):
		March 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Unaudited)
	Balance Sheet Information:
	Current assets	$	509,739		$	633,549
	Property, plant and equipment, net	3,320,118			3,310,653
	Goodwill	617,429			617,429
	Other non-current assets	467,348			470,555
	Total assets	$	4,914,634		$	5,032,186
	Current liabilities	$	281,405		$	392,572
	Long-term debt	2,710,117			2,655,553
	Other non-current liabilities	79,628			80,267
	Total liabilities	3,071,150			3,128,392
	NuStar Energy partners’ equity	1,842,378			1,902,136
	Noncontrolling interest	1,106			1,658
	Total liabilities and partners’ equity	$	4,914,634		$	5,032,186
NuStar Energy's Statement of Comprehensive (Loss) Income Information	'
	Condensed consolidated financial information reported by NuStar Energy is presented below (in thousands of dollars):
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Information:
	Revenues	$	849,213		$	998,186
	Operating income (loss)	$	81,103		$	63,358
	Income (loss) from continuing operations	$	42,996		$	19,599
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	(3,359		)	4,805
	Net income (loss)	$	39,637		$	24,404
Reconcilliation of NuStar Energybs total partnersb equity to our investment in NuStar Energy	'
	Our investment in NuStar Energy reconciles to NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity as follows:
		March 31,			December 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity	$	1,842,378		$	1,902,136
	NuStar GP Holdings’ ownership interest in NuStar Energy	14.9		%	14.9		%
	NuStar GP Holdings’ share of NuStar Energy’s partners’ equity	274,514			283,418
	Step-up in basis related to NuStar Energy’s assets and liabilities,	74,070			74,038
	including equity method goodwill, and other
	Investment in NuStar Energy	$	348,584		$	357,456

RELATED_PARTY_TRANSACTIONS_Tab

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes information pertaining to related party transactions:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014		2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Expenses for payroll, employee benefit plans and unit-based compensation	$	44,337	$	52,905
	Other expenses	$	94	$	93

DISTRIBUTIONS_FROM_NUSTAR_ENER1

DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Distributions To General and Limited Partners [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table reflects the allocation of NuStar Energy’s cash distributions earned for the periods indicated among its general and limited partners:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Unit Data)
	General partner interest	$	1,961		$	1,961
	General partner incentive distribution	10,805			10,805
	Total general partner distribution	12,766			12,766
	Limited partner distribution	11,211			11,280
	Total distributions to NuStar GP Holdings	23,977			24,046
	Public unitholders’ distributions	74,074			74,005
	Total cash distributions	$	98,051		$	98,051
	Cash distributions per unit applicable to limited partners	$	1.095		$	1.095
Distributions Made to Limited Partner, by Distribution [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes information related to NuStar Energy’s quarterly cash distributions:
	Quarter Ended		Cash Distributions Per Unit			Total Cash Distributions (Thousands of Dollars)		Record Date	Payment Date
	March 31, 2014 (a)		$	1.095		$	98,051	May 7, 2014	May 12, 2014
	31-Dec-13		$	1.095		$	98,051	February 10, 2014	February 14, 2014
	(a)	The distribution was announced on April 23, 2014.

FAIR_VALUE_MEASUREMENTS_Tables

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'
	The following liabilities are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
		March 31, 2014
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Accrued compensation expense:
	NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	$	9,007	$	—	$	—	$	9,007
	Total	$	9,007	$	—	$	—	$	9,007
		December 31, 2013
		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Accrued compensation expense:
	NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	$	6,224	$	—	$	—	$	6,224
	Total	$	6,224	$	—	$	—	$	6,224

STATEMENTS_OF_CASH_FLOWS_Table

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]	'
Changes in current assets and liabilities	'
	Changes in current assets and current liabilities were as follows:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Decrease (increase) in current assets:
	Receivable from related parties	$	(4,497	)	$	(6,298	)
	Income tax receivable	—			(23		)
	Other receivables	(429		)	(158		)
	Other current assets	(23		)	15
	Increase (decrease) in current liabilities:
	Accounts payable	73			(601		)
	Accrued compensation expense	3,642			4,315
	Accrued liabilities	—			(41		)
	Taxes other than income tax	(1,101		)	(992		)
	Changes in current assets and current liabilities	$	(2,335	)	$	(3,783	)
Cash flows related to interest and income tax	'
	Cash flows related to interest and income tax were as follows:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Cash paid for interest	$	172		$	96
	Cash paid for income tax	$	1		$	—

MEMBERS_EQUITY_Tables

MEMBERS' EQUITY (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Members' Equity [Abstract]	'
Changes in Membersb Equity	'
	The following table presents changes to our members’ equity (in thousands of dollars):
	Balance as of December 31, 2013	$	349,986
	Net income	13,646
	Distributions to unitholders	(23,249		)
	Other comprehensive loss	(948		)
	Unit-based compensation	86
	Balance as of March 31, 2014	$	339,521
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table presents balances of and changes in accumulated other comprehensive income by component:
		Share of NuStar Energy’s Other Comprehensive Loss			Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Adjustments			Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	Balance as of January 1, 2014	$	(9,417	)	$	18,358		$	8,941
	Other comprehensive loss before reclassification adjustments	(219		)	—			(219		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (a)	—			(729		)	(729		)
	Other comprehensive loss	(219		)	(729		)	(948		)
	Balance as of March 31, 2014	$	(9,636	)	$	17,629		$	7,993
	(a)	We recognized the net loss reclassified into income as general and administrative expenses. These amounts are components of net periodic pension cost and NuStar Energy reimburses us for these employee costs.
Our cash distributions applicable to the period in which the distributions were earned	'
	The following table summarizes our cash distributions applicable to the period in which the distributions were earned:
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars, Except Per Unit Data)
	Cash distributions per unit	$	0.545		$	0.545
	Total cash distributions	$	23,248		$	23,222
Distributions Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, by Distribution [Table Text Block]	'
	The following table summarizes information related to our quarterly cash distributions:
	Quarter Ended		Cash Distributions Per Unit			Total Cash Distributions (Thousands of Dollars)			Record Date		Payment Date
	March 31, 2014 (a)		$	0.545		$	23,248		May 7, 2014		May 15, 2014
	31-Dec-13		$	0.545		$	23,249		February 10, 2014		February 18, 2014
	(a)	The distribution was announced on April 23, 2014.

EMPLOYEE_BENEFIT_PLANS_Tables

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Disclosures [Abstract]	'
The components of net periodic benefit cost related to our defined benefit plans	'
	The components of net periodic benefit cost related to our defined benefit plans were as follows:
		Pension Plans (a)						Other Postretirement
								Benefit Plans
		2014			2013			2014			2013
		(Thousands of Dollars)
	For the three months ended March 31:
	Components of net periodic benefit cost:
	Service cost	$	2,012		$	4,080		$	94		$	293
	Interest cost	1,057			1,259			93			235
	Expected return on assets	(1,144		)	(1,134		)	—			—
	Amortization of prior service credit	(516		)	(10		)	(286		)	(50		)
	Amortization of net loss	45			518			28			52
	Net periodic benefit cost before other charges	1,454			4,713			(71		)	530
	Other charges (b)	—			180			—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	1,454		$	4,893		$	(71	)	$	530
	(a)	Includes amounts related to the pension plan, the excess pension plan and the supplemental executive retirement plan.
	(b)	Other charges in 2013 relate to NuStar Energy’s sale of its fuels refinery in San Antonio, Texas and related assets on January 1, 2013.

ORGANIZATION_AND_BASIS_OF_PRES1

ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION Narrative (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]	'	'
Percent ownership in NuStar Energy	14.90%	14.90%
General partner interest percentage	2.00%	'
Percent of incentive distribution rights (IDR) issued by NuStar Energy	100.00%	'
Maximum percentage of cash distributed by NuStar Energy	23.00%	'
Common units of NuStar Energy	10,244,845	'
Percent of limited partner interest	12.90%	'

INVESTMENT_IN_NUSTAR_ENERGY_Ta1

INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY Table 1 (Details) (NuStar Energy [Member], USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
NuStar Energy [Member]	'	'
Balance Sheet Information:	'	'
Current assets	$509,739	$633,549
Property, plant and equipment, net	3,320,118	3,310,653
Goodwill	617,429	617,429
Other non-current assets	467,348	470,555
Total assets	4,914,634	5,032,186
Current liabilities	281,405	392,572
Long-term debt	2,710,117	2,655,553
Other non-current liabilities	79,628	80,267
Total liabilities	3,071,150	3,128,392
NuStar Energy partners' equity	1,842,378	1,902,136
Noncontrolling interest	1,106	1,658
Total liabilities and partnersb equity	$4,914,634	$5,032,186

INVESTMENT_IN_NUSTAR_ENERGY_Ta2

INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY Table 2 (Details) (NuStar Energy [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
NuStar Energy [Member]	'	'
Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Information:	'	'
Revenues	$849,213	$998,186
Operating income (loss)	81,103	63,358
Income (loss) from continuing operations	42,996	19,599
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax	-3,359	4,805
Net income (loss)	$39,637	$24,404

INVESTMENT_IN_NUSTAR_ENERGY_Ta3

INVESTMENT IN NUSTAR ENERGY Table 3 (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Reconcilliation of NuStar Energybs total partnersb equity to our investment in NuStar Energy	'	'
NuStar GP Holdingsb ownership interest in NuStar Energy	14.90%	14.90%
NuStar GP Holdingsb share of NuStar Energybs partnersb equity	$274,514	$283,418
Step-up in basis related to NuStar Energybs assets and liabilities, including equity method goodwill, and other	74,070	74,038
Investment in NuStar Energy	348,584	357,456
NuStar Energy [Member]	'	'
Reconcilliation of NuStar Energybs total partnersb equity to our investment in NuStar Energy	'	'
NuStar Energybs partnersb equity	$1,842,378	$1,902,136

RELATED_PARTY_TRANSACTIONS_Nar

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Narrative 1 (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'
Receivable from related parties	$13,859	$9,617
Long-term receivable from related party	$39,441	$41,139

RELATED_PARTY_TRANSACTIONS_Tab1

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Table (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'
Expenses for payroll, employee benefit plans and unit-based compensation	$44,337	$52,905
Other expenses	$94	$93

RELATED_PARTY_TRANSACTIONS_Nar1

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Narrative 2 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013	Feb. 26, 2014
	NuStar Energy [Member]	NuStar Energy [Member]	Asphalt JV Services Agreement [Member]	Asphalt JV Services Agreement [Member]	Asphalt JV [Member]
	GP Services Agreement [Member]	GP Services Agreement [Member]	Asphalt JV [Member]	Asphalt JV [Member]	NuStar Energy [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Services Agreements, Description	'The GP Services Agreement provides that NuStar GP, LLC will furnish administrative and certain operating services necessary to conduct the business of NuStar Energy. All employees providing services to both NuStar GP Holdings and NuStar Energy are employed by NuStar GP, LLC; therefore, NuStar Energy reimburses NuStar GP, LLC for all employee costs, other than the expenses allocated to NuStar GP Holdings	'	'The Asphalt JV Services Agreement provides that NuStar GP, LLC will furnish certain administrative and other operating services necessary to conduct the business of Asphalt JV. Asphalt JV will compensate us for these services through an annual fee totaling $10.0 million, subject to adjustment based on the annual merit increase percentage applicable to our employees for the most recently completed contract year.	'	'
Services Agreements, Termination Date	31-Dec-14	'	'	'	'
Administrative services expense	$0.40	$0.40	'	'	'
Equity Method Investment Percent Voting Interest Sold	'	'	'	'	50.00%
Ownership Percentage By Acquiring Entity	'	'	'	'	100.00%
Counterparty Transaction Date	'	'	30-Jun-14	'	'
Administrative Fees Reduction, Description	'	'	'with the option to extend the term for an additional three months for certain services with 30 days prior written notice.	'	'
Percentage of Services Used Under Agreement with Counterparty	'	'	63.00%	'	'
Administrative Service Expense	'	'	$1.60	$2.50	'

DISTRIBUTIONS_FROM_NUSTAR_ENER2

DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY Table 1 (Details) (NuStar Energy [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
NuStar Energy [Member]	'	'	'
The allocation of NuStar Energybs cash distributions earned for the periods indicated among its general and limited partners	'	'	'
General partner interest	$1,961	'	$1,961
General partner incentive distribution	10,805	'	10,805
Total general partner distribution	12,766	'	12,766
Limited partner distribution	11,211	'	11,280
Total distributions to NuStar GP Holdings	23,977	'	24,046
Public unitholdersb distributions	74,074	'	74,005
Total cash distributions	$98,051	$98,051	$98,051
Cash distributions per unit applicable to limited partners	$1.09	$1.09	$1.09

DISTRIBUTIONS_FROM_NUSTAR_ENER3

DISTRIBUTIONS FROM NUSTAR ENERGY Table 2 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Distributions from NuStar Energy (dates and totals)	'	'	'
NuStar Energy's Distibution announcement date (distribution earned)	23-Apr-14	'	'
NuStar Energy [Member]	'	'	'
Distributions from NuStar Energy (dates and totals)	'	'	'
NuStar Energy's Cash distributions per unit applicable to limited partners (distribution earned)	$1.09	$1.09	$1.09
NuStar Energy's Total cash distributions (distribution earned)	$98,051	$98,051	$98,051
NuStar Energy's Distribution date of record (distribution earned)	7-May-14	10-Feb-14	'
NuStar Energy's Distribution payment date (distribution earned)	12-May-14	14-Feb-14	'

FAIR_VALUE_MEASUREMENTS_Table_

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS Table 1 (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accrued compensation expense:	'	'
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	$9,007	$6,224
Total	9,007	6,224
Level 1 [Member]	'	'
Accrued compensation expense:	'	'
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	9,007	6,224
Total	9,007	6,224
Level 2 [Member]	'	'
Accrued compensation expense:	'	'
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	0	0
Total	0	0
Level 3 [Member]	'	'
Accrued compensation expense:	'	'
NuStar Energy restricted units and performance awards	0	0
Total	$0	$0

STATEMENTS_OF_CASH_FLOWS_Table1

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Table 1 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Decrease (increase) in current assets:	'	'
Receivable from related parties	($4,497)	($6,298)
Income tax receivable	0	-23
Other receivables	-429	-158
Other current assets	-23	15
Increase (decrease) in current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	73	-601
Accrued compensation expense	3,642	4,315
Accrued liabilities	0	-41
Taxes other than income tax	-1,101	-992
Changes in current assets and liabilities	($2,335)	($3,783)

STATEMENTS_OF_CASH_FLOWS_Table2

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS Table 2 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Cash flows related to interest and income tax	'	'
Cash paid for interest	$172	$96
Cash (refunded) paid for income tax	$1	$0

CREDIT_FACILITY_Narrative_Deta

CREDIT FACILITY Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
			NuStar Energy Consolidated Debt Coverage Ratio [Member]	Cash Distributions Covenant [Member]	2013 Credit Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Credit Facility, Name	'	'	'	'	'364-day revolving credit agreement
Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date	'	'	'	'	28-Jun-13
Credit Facility, Maturity Date	'	'	'	'	27-Jun-14
Credit Facility, Borrowing Capacity	'	'	'	'	$40,000,000
Credit Facility, Letters of Credit Capacity	'	'	'	'	10,000,000
Line of Credit Facility, Collateral	'	'	'	'	'Our obligations under the 2013 Credit Facility are guaranteed by Riverwalk Holdings, LLC (Riverwalk), a wholly owned subsidiary. Riverwalk pledged 1,792,918 NuStar Energy units that it owns to secure its guarantee
Outstanding Borrowings Under the Credit Facility	26,000,000	26,000,000	'	'	'
Credit Facility, Borrowing Availability	$14,000,000	'	'	'	'
Credit Facility, Interest Rate Description	'	'	'	'	'Interest on the 2013 Credit Facility is based upon, at our option, either an alternative base rate or a LIBOR-based rate
Credit Facility, Interest Rate	2.20%	'	'	'	'
Credit Facility, Covenant Terms	'	'	'The terms of the 2013 Credit Facility require NuStar Energy to maintain, as of the end of each rolling period, which consists of any period of four consecutive fiscal quarters, a consolidated debt coverage ratio not to exceed 5.0-to-1.0. If NuStar Energy consummates an acquisition for an aggregate net consideration of at least $50.0 million, the maximum consolidated debt coverage ratio will increase to 5.5-to-1.0 for two rolling periods.	'receive cash distributions of at least $12.5 million in respect of our ownership interests in NuStar Energy each fiscal quarter	'
NuStar Energy's Consolidated Debt Coverage Ratio	'4.4	'	'	'	'

MEMBERS_EQUITY_Table_1_Details

MEMBERS' EQUITY Table 1 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Changes in Members' Equity [Roll Forward]	'	'
Balance as of December 31, 2013	$349,986	'
Net income (loss)	13,646	11,075
Distributions to unitholders	-23,249	-23,223
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-948	'
Unit-based compensation	86	'
Balance as of March 31, 2014	$339,521	'

MEMBERS_EQUITY_Table_2_Details

MEMBERS' EQUITY Table 2 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014
AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of January 1, 2014	$8,941
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-948
Balance as of March 31, 2014	7,993
Share of NS Energy's OCI [Member]	'
AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of January 1, 2014	-9,417
Other comprehensive loss before reclassification adjustments	-219
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (a)	0
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-219
Balance as of March 31, 2014	-9,636
Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plan Adjustment [Member]	'
AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of January 1, 2014	18,358
Other comprehensive loss before reclassification adjustments	0
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (a)	-729
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-729
Balance as of March 31, 2014	17,629
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	'
AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLoss [Roll Forward]	'
Balance as of January 1, 2014	8,941
Other comprehensive loss before reclassification adjustments	-219
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (a)	-729
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-948
Balance as of March 31, 2014	$7,993

MEMBERS_EQUITY_Table_3_Details

MEMBERS' EQUITY Table 3 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Our cash distributions applicable to the period in which the distributions were earned	'	'	'
Cash distributions per unit	$0.55	$0.55	$0.55
Total cash distributions	$23,248	$23,249	$23,222

MEMBERS_EQUITY_Table_4_Details

MEMBERS' EQUITY Table 4 (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Mar. 31, 2013
Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member [Line Items]	'	'	'
Cash distributions per unit applicable to members (distribution earned)	$0.55	$0.55	$0.55
Total cash distributions (distribution earned)	$23,248	$23,249	$23,222
Distribution date of record (distribution earned)	7-May-14	10-Feb-14	'
Distribution payment date (distribution earned)	15-May-14	18-Feb-14	'
Distribution announcement date (distribution earned)	23-Apr-14	'	'

NET_INCOME_PER_UNIT_Table_Deta

NET INCOME PER UNIT Table (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Basic and diluted units outstanding:	'	'
Weighted-average number of basic units outstanding	42,656,281	42,605,668
Weighted-average number of diluted units outstanding	42,656,281	42,605,668

NET_INCOME_PER_UNIT_Narrative_

NET INCOME PER UNIT Narrative (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]	'
Outstanding options to purchase NuStar GP Holdings units	289,100

EMPLOYEE_BENEFIT_PLANS_Table_D

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Table (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Pension Plans (the pension plan, the excess pension plan and the SERP) [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Service cost	$2,012	$4,080
Interest cost	1,057	1,259
Expected return on assets	-1,144	-1,134
Amortization of prior service credit	-516	-10
Amortization of net loss	45	518
Net periodic benefit cost before other charges	1,454	4,713
Other charges (b)	0	180
Net periodic benefit cost	1,454	4,893
Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Member]	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]	'	'
Service cost	94	293
Interest cost	93	235
Expected return on assets	0	0
Amortization of prior service credit	-286	-50
Amortization of net loss	28	52
Net periodic benefit cost before other charges	-71	530
Other charges (b)	0	0
Net periodic benefit cost	($71)	$530