Business. Scoop » The Chatham Islands Celebrates A $50-Million Airport Upgrade
Press Release – Chatham Islands Airport LimitedThe project began in 2021, with phase one lengthening the runway by 490 metres, upgrading taxiways and drainage, doubling the apron size, and extending. . .
Press Release – Chatham Islands Airport LimitedThe project began in 2021, with phase one lengthening the runway by 490 metres, upgrading taxiways and drainage, doubling the apron size, and extending solarpowered aerodrome lighting. Aug 12, 2026On 12 August, Minister Hon Mark Patterson officially opened the new passenger terminal at the Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport. The event on Rēkohu | Wharekauri marked the completion of the $50-million Longer and Stronger project, a five-year redevelopment that has secured the Islands’ aviation lifeline for the next 30 to 50 years. The project began in 2021, with phase one lengthening the runway by 490 metres, upgrading taxiways and drainage, doubling the apron size, and extending solarpowered aerodrome lighting. “The logistics were exceptional. Approximately 70,000m³ of aggregate was extracted, processed and transported; more than 33,000 tonnes of asphalt were manufactured on site; and around 2,000 tonnes of specialist polymer-modified bitumen was shipped to the island,” said Chatham Islands Airport Limited Chair and CEO Allan MacGibbon. The completed runway works were recognised as the Small Airport Infrastructure Project of the Year at the 2023 New Zealand Airports Awards, when the Chatham Islands Airport was also named Small Airport of the Year. “Delivering a Code 4Ccapable airfield in one of New Zealand’s most remote environments is an extraordinary achievement. It shows what’s possible when national investment and local determination come together,” said Chatham Islands Enterprise Trust Chairperson Hamish Chisholm. The second phase focused on the passenger terminal, repurposing and restructuring the original 1982 building. A new secure departure lounge was built, the arrivals and checkin facilities upgraded, and security systems were enhanced. Cultural guidance from Hokotehi Moriori Trust and Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri Iwi Trust ensured the modern gateway reflects the identity and history of Rēkohu | Wharekauri. With its new 1850metre runway, Tuuta Airport now sits alongside many of New Zealand’s larger regional airports in capability, supporting stronger freight, emergency response and future aircraft options. “This is our lifeline, and these upgrades ensure the Chatham Islands can stay connected and resilient for generations. On behalf of the Chatham Islands Council, I congratulate the Enterprise Trust and its airport company for this wonderful addition to our community,” said Chatham Islands Mayor Greg Horler. Content Sourced fromscoop. co. nzOriginal url