Latest News & Press Releases
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7 Dec 2011
VIRGIN AUSTRALIA RE-BRANDS ITS INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES
Virgin Australia group of airlines today officially launched its international airlines V Australia and Pacific Blue under the new brand, Virgin Australia.
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21 Oct 2011
AIRPORT LAND SALE SEEN AS BREAKTHROUGH FOR FUTURE DEVEOPMENT
Hamilton International Airport has greeted news of the sale of a large block of land on the airport precinct as having the potential to be a major catalyst for growth and development in the region.
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17 Oct 2011
HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ANNOUNCES PROFITABLE ANNUAL RESULT
Hamilton International Airport announced a $111,000 net profit after tax for the year ending 30 June 2011 at its annual general meeting today in Hamilton. The profit follows on the back of two consecutive years of deficit.
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12 Aug 2011
HAMILTON AIRPORT RUNWAY APPROVED TO 3000M
Hamilton International Airport (“HIA”) has achieved a major milestone in its history with the announcement today that the airport has secured approvals and recommendations to extend the runway to just short of 3000m.
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8 Apr 2011
STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRCRAFT PAINT FACILITY TO BE BUILT IN HAMILTON, NZ
Acting Minister for Economic Development, the Hon David Carter, turned the first sod today in a ceremony marking the start of construction of a state-of-the-art aircraft paint facility....
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4 Mar 2011
HIA SIX MONTH FINANCIAL RESULT - AHEAD OF BUDGET
Hamilton International Airport (HIA) has delivered a financial result $463,000 ahead of budget for the first six months of the 2010/11 financial year......
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5 Oct 2010
AIRPORT REPORTS TOUGH YEAR WITH $1.6M LOSS
Hamilton International Airport has reported a $1.6 million pre-tax loss for its latest financial year.
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15 July 2010
NEW USA SERVICE NOW AVAILABLE FROM HAMILTON
Pacific Blue and V Australia have confirmed the launch of a new service to Los Angeles from Hamilton International Airport, available for booking now.
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25 March 2010
CATHAY PACIFIC MAKES FLYING MORE CONVENIENT FOR WAIKATO PASSENGERS
Travellers are now able to depart from Hamilton International Airport to long haul destinations, for the first time ever, thanks to a new partnership between Pacific Blue and Cathay Pacific Airways.
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21 January 2010
HAMILTON & WAIKATO REGION WELCOMES FUNDING PARTNERSHIP
An extra $250,000 worth of Government funding has been secured by the Hamilton & Waikato region for regional tourism.
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17 September 2009
1000th PLANE MANUFACTURED IN THE WAIKATO REGION
Celebrations were held today at Hamilton International Airport commemorating the 1000th aircraft manufactured in the Waikato region of New Zealand.
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31 August 2009
CHAMPAGNE CORKS POP AT AIRPOT
Champagne corks will be popping at Hamilton International Airport this afternoon (Monday, August 31) when Pacific Blue’s Boeing 737-800 lands for the first time.
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13 June 2009
HAMILTON, TAURANGA AIRPORTS FORGE ALLIANCE
Hamilton International Airport and Tauranga Airport today announced a strategic alliance to ensure the success of international flights out of Hamilton and build tourism in both regions.
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06 June 2009
AIRPORT SEEKS PLANNING APPROVAL TO EXTEND RUNWAY
Hamilton International Airport is to seek planning approvals to extend its runway to handle wide-bodied jet aircraft in the future at an expected cost of $22 million.
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03 June 2009
PACIFIC BLUE DECISION MAJOR BOOST TO REGIONAL ECONOMY
Board chairman of Hamilton International Airport, Jerry Rickman, today described Pacific Blue's decision as a major boost to the airport and the region.
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10 Mar 2009
TITANIUM PARK GETS GREEN LIGHT
The Titanium Park development took a significant step forward this month when Waipa District Council granted final approval for a plan change. Close to 117 hectares of rural and aviation land adjoining Hamilton International Airport has been successfully rezoned for commercial and industrial applications.
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19 Feb 2009
BIG BOOST FOR REGIONAL TOURISM
Hamilton International Airport today announced a move to boost regional tourism in the central North Island.
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VIRGIN AUSTRALIA RE-BRANDS ITS INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES
Virgin Australia group of airlines today officially launched its international airlines V Australia and Pacific Blue under the new brand, Virgin Australia.
The establishment of one brand and identity for Virgin Australia’s domestic and international operations is a key part of the company’s Game Change Program strategy to become the airline of choice in Australia. From today, travellers will experience:
- New Virgin Australia signage at key international ports;
- New-look travel documents;
- One Guest Contact Centre number for both the domestic and international operations; and
- One consolidated Virgin Australia website for both the domestic and international operations.
Virgin Australia group of airlines also today unveiled a new brand and livery for its joint venture with the Government of Samoa, Polynesian Blue. The Prime Minister of Samoa, the Hon. Tuilaepa Sailele
Malielegaoi, announced that the country’s national airline will now operate as Virgin Samoa.
Virgin Australia group of airlines CEO John Borghetti said that having both the domestic and international airlines operating under the Virgin brand was one of the company’s most significant achievements this year.
“The Virgin Australia name enables us to tap into the huge power of the Virgin brand around the world – a brand that signifies style, innovation, quality, value for money and the best service.
“The new identity has been designed with a clean and contemporary look and feel that encapsulates our company’s repositioning as the airline of choice for all market segments.
“Now that our international airlines are all operating under the Virgin brand, our focus is on redesigning the product in the air to ensure a first-rate travel experience across all of our airlines. We look forward to revealing the new designs in the first half of 2012”, Mr Borghetti said.
Virgin Australia will be implementing directional signage and putting on extra Ground Crew to assist guests during the transition period. There will not be any changes to guest travel bookings as a result of the launch of the new brands.
The company’s trading name has also been changed from Virgin Blue Holdings Limited (ASX:VBA) to Virgin Australia Holdings Limited (ASX:VAH), with the new ASX code going live today.'
ENDS
Media Contacts:
Emma Copeman, +61 421 702 193
Melissa Thomson: +61 408 660 891
Virgin Australia
AIRPORT LAND SALE SEEN AS BREAKTHROUGH FOR FUTURE DEVEOPMENT
Hamilton International Airport has greeted news of the sale of a large block of land on the airport precinct as having the potential to be a major catalyst for growth and development in the region.
The Airport’s joint venture business park, Titanium Park (in association with McConnell Property), has sold 12 hectares of land known as the Rayne’s precinct, which had been identified as stage one of Titanium Park’s development.
The sale represents the entire stage one land area.
Internet e-commerce retailer and logistics company Torpedo7 has bought the land that it will use to base its Australasian business operation.
Hamilton International Airport CEO, Chris Doak, says the land sale is the culmination of years of strategic planning by the airport to better utilize surplus land that included the establishment of Titanium Park, and the vision of creating a freight and distribution hub.
“We believe that the land sale to Torpedo7 has the potential to create significant ongoing value for the airport because of the nature of their logistics business. Torpedo7 creates the need for a huge volume of airfreight from its on-line sales throughout New Zealand and Australia. It is obviously a strategic opportunity for Torpedo7 to be based by an airport. We are hoping it will be a catalyst for increased freight potential going forward, including attracting similar businesses to locate at Hamilton Airport,” says Mr Doak.
Waikato Regional Airport Limited Board Chairman, John Birch, says unlocking the airfreight potential for Hamilton remains a long-term goal.
“It has always been the airport’s vision to see a significant airfreight operation based at Hamilton because of its central location, proximity to road networks, a strong business environment and because Hamilton is at the heart of the largest export region in the country. Up until now we have been missing a piece of the jigsaw, which can under-pin an airfreight operation. Equine freight remains a strong possiblity. Torpedo 7’s business generates regular and high volumes of additional airfreight which could create critical mass and efficiencies to attract others businesses that could use Hamilton Airport for its airfreight,” says Mr Birch.
The key advantage of Titanium Park is its connectivity both in terms of its strategic location and access to modern fibre optic infrastructure. Located in the heart of one of New Zealand’s largest export regions, the high-profile development is flanked by State Highways 1, 3 and 21, and is adjacent to Hamilton International Airport. The Park is supported by high speed fibre optic connections making it easy for the likes of Torpedo7 to do business.
Founded in Hamilton in 2003, Torpedo7 is one of country’s fastest growing companies, the adventure retailer’s revenue has grown 570% in three years.
Torpedo7 plans to build a number of buildings at Titanium Park. Stage 1 will include a 12,000sqm warehouse and 3,500 sqm office, followed by a further two over the next 3-4 years. And, in line with the company’s culture, Torpedo7 will develop a campus-style facility with a high standard of staff amenity.
This is a significant transaction which reinforces Titanium Park’s credentials as a high quality and well located business park which has been designed with the end user in mind. It is also a clear vote of confidence for the Waikato region as a whole, and for continued development to the south of the city. Titanium Park is creating a vibrant commercial and industrial hub for the region. It is an ideal location for major freight and logistics businesses to base themselves. They have a unique opportunity to establish a cluster with considerable economic advantage.
Waipa District Mayor Alan Livingston says the land sale is tremendous news for the future development of Hamilton Airport and the Waikato economy.
"It is very likely this development by Torpedo 7 is a catalyst for the growth of additional airport related businesses. It is exactly what we needed to happen."
Hamilton Mayor Julie Hardaker has also welcomed the land sale news. "Hamilton Airport and what happens there is a crucial part of our regional and city economy. To see the airport moving ahead like this is a significant and positive boost."
Hamilton Airport recently received positive planning outcomes and recommendations that would allow it to extend its runway out to nearly 3000 metres when viable.
A 3000 metre runway opens opportunities for larger aircraft to use Hamilton Airport for long haul flights and creates the ability for airlines to carry more passengers and larger amounts of freight to more destinations – including Asia direct.
The land being sold by Titanium Park is at the northern end of the airport on the corner of Airport Road and Raynes Road and is surplus to the aeronautical needs of Hamilton Airport.
ENDS
For more information contact:
John Birch
Airport Chairman
021 637 912
Chris Doak
CEO Hamilton Airport
027 4313616
HAMILTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT ANNOUNCES PROFITABLE ANNUAL RESULT
Hamilton International Airport announced a $111,000 net profit after tax for the year ending 30 June 2011 at its annual general meeting today in Hamilton. The profit follows on the back of two consecutive years of deficit.
Chairman, John Birch, said “this is a solid result for the financial year. It is our first full financial year of earnings from international travel through our partnership with Pacific Blue and reflects strong growth in domestic passenger numbers.”
Mr Birch says the Airport was headed for an excellent year-end result until it was severely affected by three natural disasters in the second half of the year.
“Queensland is our largest international market and that region’s disastrous floods severely affected international passenger numbers to and from that region.
“In February, the Christchurch earthquake had a major impact on domestic travel in and out of that region, which is one of Hamilton’s largest domestic markets. In fact, total domestic passenger numbers for the first six months of the year tracked on average 23% ahead of last year. But, growth dipped to single figures from February through June,” he explains.
In addition, toward the end of the year the ash plume from the eruption of Cordon Caulle in Southern Chile resulted in a number of cancelled international flights, while affecting international and domestic schedules across Australia and New Zealand.
As a result of these natural disasters, the Airport recorded 46,000 international passenger movements, down 14% from last year. While aircraft movements were also down 21,000 on last year - at 102,000 - this was largely the result of lighter pilot training numbers.
Domestic passenger numbers totalled 316,000 - up by 36,000 on last year. Mr Birch said “the increase in domestic traffic, despite the impact of the earthquake, follows a national trend and was a reflection on the economic turnaround at the time.”
The Airport’s annual result also showed an operational EBITDA of $2.03 million - up $549,000 from last year. This was 14% better than budget of $1.77 million. “The favourable outcome of the judicial review proceedings with New Zealand Customs Services, together with a change in internal structure and tight cost controls, helped contribute to this positive end of year result,” says Mr Birch.
Hamilton International Airport CEO, Chris Doak, said the company made significant progress during the 2010/11 with three major initiatives: Titanium Park, regional tourism, and a successful outcome on the runway extension designation.
“We have seen momentum building for our Titanium Park industrial development with all of Stage 1 now fully contracted. We have also initiated access to airport lots on the western side of the airport in response to the newly constructed aircraft paint facility, which opens up more land to potential tenants signalling that land activity has been buoyant in recent times.”
“Additionally, the Airport successfully spawned a new Regional Tourism Organisation this year after leading and supporting this tourism initiative in-house for the past few years.
“The third major milestone for us was being able to secure the right to extend the main commercial runway seal up to 3000 metres when required in the future,” outlines Mr Doak.
John Birch says the Board of Directors anticipate 2011/12 will be yet another year of change on both the international and domestic fronts.
“We see potential for a positive impact on international and domestic passenger numbers this year as a result of Pacific Blue operating in partnership with Air New Zealand under their alliance, which enables both airlines to sell each other’s tickets.”
Chris Doak also says a further positive sign for the coming year is the anticipated growth from increased air movements at the Airport, coming mostly from adjacent pilot training centre, CTC Aviation Training. “CTC has announced several new contracts for airline pilot training, which are expected to yield an increase in aircraft movements and landings during 2011/12.”
A copy of Hamilton International Airport’s 2010/11 Annual Report can be downloaded at http://www.hamiltonairport.co.nz/page/14-news-media+annual-reports.
-ENDS-
Media Contacts:
John Birch, Chairman
Hamilton International Airport
021 637 912
Chris Doak, CEO
Hamilton International Airport
0274313616
HAMILTON AIRPORT RUNWAY APPROVED TO 3000M
Hamilton International Airport (“HIA”) has achieved a major milestone in its history with the announcement today that the airport has secured approvals and recommendations to extend the runway to just short of 3000m.
While there is no immediate timetable, the option to extend the runway has now been approved for the next 15 years.
Independent commissioners conducted the plan change and designation hearing at Waipa District Council chambers over three days in March and May and the hearing was concluded on May 30th. The runway designation and plan change have been the culmination of a detailed master planning exercise based on long term planning out to 2030.
The approvals and recommendations allow for an extended runway, taxiways, extended apron, associated air noise boundaries changes, and also includes land designations at both ends of the runway for the protection of runway lights and navigation aids to allow the implementation of instrument landing system high intensity lighting - in support of long haul wide body services.
In time, Hamilton airport’s vision is to become a low cost secondary airport gateway into New Zealand. Chief Executive Chris Doak says Hamilton Airport’s competitive advantage now is that it has the ability to extend the runway for long haul international connection for the central North Island. He says this allows Hamilton to become a low cost secondary airport gateway in and out of New Zealand in the future.
“There are clear parallels to the secondary airport models developed in other parts of the world including Gold Coast, Avalon, and Stansted airport in the UK”, says Mr Doak.
“Gold Coast’s approach to the Queensland market is particularly relevant given they have established a business case for secondary connection directly with Asia, even given their proximity to Brisbane airport just one hour up the road. It is clear that airlines require different airport sizes and locations to meet their needs. We believe Hamilton will be able to offer an airport that is very attractive to many international carriers in the future with an extended runway”, says Mr Doak.
“These are long term goals and this is not going to happen tomorrow. There is still significant activity required to complete the business case and capital funding models. Approvals will allow the airport to begin to identify suitable partners to help make this project successful. It represents a major milestone in the airport’s history of development”, he says.
Mr Doak says the next step for the airport is to examine and review all the conditions around the approvals and recommendations from the independent commissioners.
Airport Chairman John Birch says the approvals and recommendations by the independent commissioners are extremely positive news for the airport.
“We certainly hoped these decisions and recommendations would come out as they have. We are particularly pleased to have a 15 year approval window. With this part of the consultation and planning process completed the airport can now plan for the future with some certainty,” he says.
Mr Birch says the airport now has the option to extend the runway when the time is right.
“We think there is enormous value to the region in securing the ability to extend the runway at the appropriate time. Ultimately the timing of any extension will be driven by commercial fundamentals and the robustness of the business case,” he says.
ENDS
For the Q&A document regarding the runway extension please click here.
For more information contact:
John Birch
Airport Chairman
021 637 912
Chris Doak
Airport CEO
027 4313616.
VOLCANIC ASH FLIGHT DISRUPTIONS
Hamilton International Airport wish to advise travellers that there is potential for delays to international services as airlines review their schedules as a result of the ash plume from the eruption of Cordon Caulle in Southern Chile.
The Virgin Australia Group of Airlines has recommenced services into and out of Melbourne, Tasmania, and New Zealand today. However, following yesterday's cancellations and diversions, their network has experienced some disruption and people booked on international services to and from Hamilton are advised to check with Pacific Blue for schedule updates.
FOR UP-TO-DATE INTERNATIONAL FILIGHT INFORMATION visit Pacific Blue’s website by clicking here.
FOR UP-TO-DATE DOMESTIC FLIGHT INFORMATION visit Air New Zealand’s website by clicking here.
URGENT - SH21 NARROWS BRIDGE HAMILTON UPDATE
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) wishes to advise that due to technical difficulties the planned work to remove the temporary bailey bridge on State Highway 21 at Narrows Bridge scheduled for today, could not be undertaken.
NZTA Waikato State Highways manager Kaye Clark says the highway had been closed between the hours of 9:30 am and 5:00 pm, in order for the bridge to be completely removed and for the Narrows Bridge to be returned to two-lane traffic.
”Unfortunately due to technical difficulties with the crane, which was required to lift the bailey bridge out, this work could not be carried out as planned.”
As a result, the bailey bridge will remain in place upstream of the Narrows Bridge, which crosses the Waikato River just south of Hamilton on SH21 (Airport Road), for a further week.
The Narrows Bridge will continue operating as one lane, carrying westbound traffic heading to Hamilton airport, with the temporary bailey bridge, immediately upstream of the Narrows Bridge, continuing to carry eastbound traffic.
A second road closure will be required next Wednesday 27 April, for the bridge removal work to be completed.
“We appreciate the significant inconvenience a major road closure like this causes for motorists travelling this route, and for people who live in this area,” says Mrs Clark.
“We thank motorists for their patience and understanding as we work to reinstate the Narrows Bridge to two-lane traffic.”
ENDS
For more information please contact:
Kara Fleming
Senior Advisor Communications and Engagement
T 64 07 958 7943
M 64 027 294 2649
kara.fleming "at" nzta.govt.nz
STATE-OF-THE-ART AIRCRAFT PAINT FACILITY TO BE BUILT IN HAMILTON, NZ
Acting Minister for Economic Development, the Hon David Carter, turned the first sod today in a ceremony marking the start of construction of a state-of-the-art aircraft paint facility to be built in Hamilton, New Zealand.
The Minister said New Zealand, and particularly the Waikato region, is fast developing a reputation for excellence in the areas of air training and aviation servicing.
“This plant will certainly boost that reputation and I applaud the Aviation Industry Cluster’s initiative in developing what looks to be one of the best facilities of its type in the world.”
Construction of the $2 million, 1300 square foot paint facility will begin next week and will be open for business by August 2011. The state-of-the-art plant integrates the world’s latest spray-painting technologies and will be capable of potentially painting an aircraft 65% faster than any current facility operating in Australasia.
The plant will be located adjacent to the runway at Hamilton International Airport, alongside CTC Aviation Training (NZ) Limited’s airline pilot crew training centre.
Aviation Industry Cluster Chairman, John Jones, says the facility is not only unique for New Zealand but is thought to be a world-first.
“As far as we are aware, this facility will be the first of its type in the Southern Hemisphere and may even be a world-first. Construction of this plant is the result of two years of research, gathering the very latest paint stripping, electrostatic paint application and bake curing techniques. And, we’re combining them all under one roof.
“This is not only a coup for the New Zealand aviation industry, this is a facility that will be an asset for the broader Australasian aviation industry as well,” explains Mr Jones. “There are numerous spillover benefits to the region and New Zealand.”
The paint facility will be built in two stages. The first stage will be completed by August 2011 and will accommodate helicopters through to ATR, Q300 aircraft. The Cluster also expects high demand for re-painting by owners of the 4000-plus light aircraft currently operating in New Zealand.
The Cluster plans to construct the second stage of the facility in approximately three years time, which will be capable of painting passenger aircraft as large as a Boeing 737 and military sized aircraft like the C130 Hercules.
“We estimate stage two of the paint facility will be built in 2014, however this construction timeline could be accelerated if industry demand is high,” said Mr Jones.
Following construction of the first stage of the plant, the facility will employ approximately 10-12 full-time employees.
John Jones says the facility should provide a boost to the local economy. “Not only will the new paint facility provide around a dozen new jobs in the first stage, the Aviation Industry Cluster also believes the new facility will make New Zealand more attractive and less costly to new aircraft manufacturing companies seeking to establish or expand in the Australasian region. Having access to a high-end, specialist aviation painting service will be a huge benefit to these types of companies.
“It is hoped that aircraft maintenance work will be required, and that the facility may attract new aircraft assembly plants to the region, creating more jobs and a stronger industry. The facility will be available to all New Zealand aircraft owners and operators, and to local manufacturers,” explains Aviation Industry Cluster General Manager, Shaun Mitchell.
Hamilton International Airport chief executive Chris Doak says, “The paint facility is an excellent tenant to have located at the airport. Leasing land to the paint facility is consistent with the airport's desire to facilitate economic growth around the airport especially when it is related to the aeronautical business.
“We already have a strong cluster of aviation related companies located here and we are confident the paint facility will attract further aviation-related businesses to choose our international airport as their New Zealand base.”
Hamilton’s aircraft paint facility is a joint venture project between Waikato-based private investor, IGS Group, and the Aviation Industry Cluster. The Aviation Industry Cluster will be investing Major Regional Initiative (MRI) funds into the project, granted to the organisation by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.
-ENDS-
Media Contacts:
Shaun Mitchell, General Manager
Aviation Industry Cluster
021 308 333
Shaun.mitchell "at" xtra.co.nz
NARROWS BRIDGE CLOSURE - 20TH APRIL 2011
As part of NZTA’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the state highway network, the removal of the Bailey bridge at the Narrows will be undertaken in April. The remedial works needed to stabilize the existing banks is near completion. This means we are able to open the existing bridge back to normal operation.
Works are to commence on the 20th of April 2011 and take 1 day. Narrows Bridge / State Highway 21 will be closed and a detour will be in place. The closure will be 100m either side of the bridge, please follow the detour. Your access to and from your property will remain open for use at all times.
The closure will be in place from 9.30am through to 5.00pm on the day. There will be no access across the bridge during this closure.
In the days leading up to this, there will be preparation works for the removal. This will involve short periods of Stop / Go operations but will not have any significant impact on the normal operation of traffic flows.
If you have any queries regarding this work, you may contact Transfield Services office on (07) 846 9600 for further information.
PACIFIC BLUE GETS REVVD UP AGAIN FOR THE ITM400 HAMILTON
Hamilton & Waikato’s international airline, Pacific Blue, has once again become the official airline of the ITM400 Hamilton, New Zealand’s sole round of the V8 Supercar Championship in 2011.
The ITM400 Hamilton street race will run from 15-17 April and Pacific Blue will fly drivers, teams and officials across the Tasman into Hamilton and Auckland gateways for the event.
Pacific Blue flies direct from Brisbane to Hamilton four times a week, with connecting flights to other main centres in Australia, allowing Australian fans to follow the V8 Supercars Championship circuit to Hamilton.
Pacific Blue Regional Sales Manager Bruce Moffat said the ITM400 V8 Supercars in Hamilton had quickly become a major event on the New Zealand sporting calendar which they were delighted to be involved in once again.
“Pacific Blue is proud to support this great event, cementing our place as Hamilton’s international airline. The race is very well supported by locals and visitors and we’re delighted to have teamed up with the organisers again this year.”
Tickets for the event are on sale now from Ticketek agencies and access to the ZZ Top and Good Charlotte concerts is included in all single day and multiple day tickets.
Visit http://hamilton.v8supercars.com.au/ for more details on the ITM400 Hamilton.
HIA SIX MONTH FINANCIAL RESULT - AHEAD OF BUDGET
Hamilton International Airport (HIA) has delivered a financial result $463,000 ahead of budget for the first six months of the 2010/11 financial year with a sustained improvement in domestic and international load factors underpinning the financial result.
According to the six month shareholder report the half year result is a group profit of $337,000.
Total passenger numbers were up 25% in the six months to December 2010 compared to the corresponding six months to December 2009.
Domestic passenger numbers increased by 26% and trans-Tasman numbers were 18% higher than in 2009 (six months operation vs four months in 2009).
In July additional capacity was added to the Brisbane market, increasing from three to four per week in August, helping to grow HIA’s market share to Brisbane.
District plan changes / variations for the runway designation project for the three affected local authorities (Waipa, Waikato, and Hamilton City) were notified in October, crystallising the requirements for HIA’s future runway extension option. The main feature of the plan is to provide for a future 789 metre sealed extension to the northern end of the main runway - when there is a business case.
Airport Chief Executive Chris Doak said the option to extend the runway in the future significantly increases the markets that Hamilton could serve – when viable.
“It would enable the airport’s use by long haul aircraft and enable the airport to reduce its reliance on narrow bodied aircraft and the trans-Tasman market” he said.
The Hamilton & Waikato tourism initiative continued to deliver on the service level agreement with shareholding councils, and to progress activity related to the creation of a stand-alone Regional Tourism Organisation.
A key focus of the last six months has been an investigation into the appropriate structure and funding model for regional tourism. A report and recommendation has been completed into the establishment of an independent Regional Tourism Organisation from 1 July 2011.
HIA was successful in reversing passenger clearance charges invoiced by NZ Customs Service (Customs) in a judicial review proceeding earlier this year. As a result of the High Court decision, HIA is not required to pay for Customs services at the airport.
There has been increased interest in industrial land around the airport for the airport and Titanium Park land, providing increased confidence for future development activity.
Jerry Rickman stepped down from the role of Chairman in December 2010.
Mr Rickman joined the airport as a director in 2003 and was subsequently elevated to role of Chairman in 2006.
Mr Doak said “Mr Rickman’s valuable and pragmatic contribution has guided the airport through significant change including: land developments; a new terminal; re-pricing exercises; the attraction of Pacific Blue; and the reestablishment of regional tourism. We would like to acknowledge the dedication and contribution from Jerry and wish him all the best in his future activities.”
Current Director John Birch has been appointed Chairman and Greg Thompson has been appointed as the new replacement Board member.
A partner at Russell McVeagh, Mr Thompson has an extensive background in property development and infrastructure.
Mr Birch said HIA welcomed Mr Thompson’s strong commercial and industrial business acumen, believing his skill-set would be a great asset to the company.
ENDS
For more information contact:
John Birch
Chairman,
Waikato Regional Airport Limited
Telephone 07 8390801, 021 637912
Chris Doak,
Chief Executive,
Waikato Region al Airport Limited
Telephone 0274 313 616
Click here for a summary of the above information in graph form.
ALL FLIGHTS OPERATIONAL, SOME DELAYS EXPECTED
All international and domestic flights from HIA are currently operational, including Air New Zealand services to Christchurch.
However the domestic network is experiencing delays from time to time due to the Airways Control Centre, based in Christchurch, operating at a reduced staff capacity as a result of the earthquake.
In particular, people looking to fly to Christchurch are being advised to take the lack of commercial accommodation in the central city in to account before travelling.
FOR UP-TO-DATE DOMESTIC FLIGHT INFORMATION:
The latest information about domestic arrivals and departures in and out of Hamilton can be found on Air New Zealand’s website by clicking here.
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
All international services at HIA are operational and flight information can be found at Pacific Blue’s website by clicking here.
SH21 NARROWS WAIKATO RIVER CROSSING RESTORED TO TWO LANES
The State Highway 21 Narrows Waikato River crossing, just south of Hamilton on Airport Road, was restored to two lanes this morning with the reopening of one lane on the Narrows Bridge.
The Narrows Bridge is carrying westbound traffic heading to Hamilton airport and the temporary bailey
bridge, immediately downstream of the Narrows Bridge, is now carrying eastbound traffic.
Both bridges have a 30km/h speed restriction in place and are open to all legal loads, including Class 1 heavy vehicles. Cyclists are also able to use both bridges.
Narrows Bridge was closed on 16 September after the NZTA was unable to continue monitoring erosion
damage in the vicinity of the bridge due to high and rising river levels. A temporary one-lane bailey bridge was opened to traffic on 20 October and will remain in place for at least another three months until the Waikato River bank erosion protection and stabilisation work has been completed, and the Narrows Bridge can be restored to full two-lane operation.
NZTA State Highway Manager Kaye Clark says consistently low Waikato River levels over the past week has enabled the strengthening of the river banks around the Narrows Bridge to be advanced to the point where it is now safe to allow one lane of traffic to use the bridge.
The work to reinforce the Waikato River banks to protect the existing Narrows Bridge from further erosion is currently ongoing. Some further brief closures of the Narrows Bridge will be required over the next few months to enable the repair work to be carried out. During these closures traffic will be reduced back to one lane over the bailey bridge, and controlled by traffic signals.
The first of these brief closures of Narrows Bridge is scheduled to occur next Monday, 29 November.
Monday’s temporary closure of Narrows Bridge is expected to be in effect for several hours and will allow a large fallen tree to be removed from the Waikato River, just upstream of the bridge. All traffic will be diverted onto the bailey bridge during the temporary closure of the Narrows Bridge.
Heavy vehicles requiring overweight and over-dimensional permits will not be able to travel over either bridge and will need to use alternative routes until the bank stabilisation works have been fully completed.
For more information please contact:
Julie Hannam
Regional Communications Advisor
T 64 07 958 7238
M 64 027 294 2649
Julie.hannam "at" nzta.govt.nz
www.nzta.govt.nz
AIRPORT REPORTS TOUGH YEAR WITH $1.6M LOSS
Hamilton International Airport has reported a $1.6 million pre-tax loss for its latest financial year.
The loss includes $988,000 for the write-down in property valuations. The result compares with a loss of $979,000 in the previous year.
The current year’s tax expense is $4.02 million after the company had to make a deferred tax adjustment as a result of Government’s changes to depreciation deductibility in the 2010 budget.
As previously signalled to the five council shareholders, airport chairman Jerry Rickman and chief executive, Chris Doak, have described the operating environment “as a tough year.”
In their report to shareholders at the annual general meeting today, they said the year was “one of great volatility for the aviation industry as a whole.” But despite the loss, the airport, operated by Waikato Regional Airport Limited, achieved two major goals:
- The regional attraction of a new airline to Hamilton, the first in 15 years for a regional international port, when Pacific Blue began scheduled flights in September 2009.
- A successful first year of tourism activity with the delivery of regional tourism functions by the airport on behalf of the region.
Pacific Blue has made a significant impact on airport operations. Over the first nine months of operation, the airline carried 53,000 international passengers, a 16 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Pacific Blue is now flying four flights a week to Brisbane, with travel from Hamilton to Los Angeles (via Brisbane with V Australia) and to Asia via a code share arrangement with Cathay Pacific.
Domestic passenger numbers saw a 5.7 percent reduction to 279,570 attributed to the impacts of the recession and a “domestic airfare war out of Auckland.” The drop in passenger numbers also reflecte a drop in Air New Zealand’s seat capacity which was down 7 percent for the year.
After initially falling 20 percent, Mr Rickman and Mr Doak reported that domestic passenger numbers started to recover at the end of the calendar year. The recovery continued through to June 30 with Air New Zealand domestic services from Hamilton having the highest load factor for the past five years.
Regional tourism initiatives had been supported through additional funding of $169,000 from New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, and a regional commitment of $250,000 was matched by Government to provide $500,000 for marketing in Australia as part of a Government joint venture programme between March and June.
The airport company also continued to help foster and grow the Waikato Aviation cluster through participation on the advisory board and through direct investment completing projects such as the sealed general aviation runway and taxiway.
The region has become a national centre for pilot training with CTC Aviation Training, operating since 2004, predicting it will inject $95 million into the local economy over the next 10 years.
Mr Rickman said the Waikato region’s annual aviation related revenue had been independently estimated by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise at around $297 million a year.
As well as the direct contribution by the aviation sector, the airport had played a role in initiatives that were enabling regional outcomes including input into the aviation cluster, regional tourism, regional development and city planning.
In addition, the surrounding aviation businesses employ several hundred people and accommodate 300 trainee pilots over a 12 month period.
For more information contact:
Chris Doak,
Chief Executive,
Waikato Region al Airport Limited
Telephone 0274 313 616
NEW USA SERVICE NOW AVAILABLE FROM HAMILTON
Pacific Blue and V Australia have confirmed the launch of a new service to Los Angeles from Hamilton International Airport, available for booking now.
Utilising the existing Pacific Blue flights passengers from Hamilton will now be able to connect from Brisbane with V Australia’s Los Angeles services.
Airport Chief Executive Chris Doak said “the addition of this new long-haul service means greater convenience and ease for central North Island residents wanting to fly to the US. It means less time, cost and hassle driving up to Auckland.”
“By creating this new American connection, on top of the wide range of one-stop Australian and Pacific services via Brisbane they already provide, the Virgin Blue Group has demonstrated its commitment to connecting the Hamilton market long haul to the world” said Mr Doak.
Outbound services from Hamilton to LA via Brisbane will be offered on Mondays and inbound services from LA to Hamilton via Brisbane will be available on Fridays.
Hamilton International Airport’s flat car parking rate of $28 for international passengers will apply for these services.
Members of the public seeking more information on this new service should contact V Australia on 0800 828 782 or visit their local travel agent. Bookings can also be made through www.vaustralia.co.nz.
QUEENSLAND FOCUS FOR PACIFIC BLUE’S NORTHERN WINTER SCHEDULE
Pacific Blue will be increasing direct flights to Brisbane from both Hamilton and Dunedin when it introduces its northern winter schedule later this year.
The airline will add one extra weekly flight from Hamilton to Brisbane, taking the total number of weekly flights from three to four. Its Dunedin-Brisbane schedule will also increase by one flight a week from three to four, with an additional flight on a Friday.
When the new schedule begins the airline will no longer offer direct flights from Hamilton to Sydney, adding extra frequency to Brisbane instead.
CEO Mark Pitt said Queensland continued to be one of the airline’s best performing destinations and it was matching supply with demand.
“Both Dunedin and Hamilton markets have shown good support for our direct services to Brisbane and as a result we’re adding an extra weekly flight from both cities.
“While the support for Hamilton-Sydney has also been positive during periods such as school holidays, we have made the decision to focus on a route from Hamilton that is in stronger demand and allows us to provide more frequent services. We will continue to work with Hamilton Airport on new connections and potential seasonal flights.”
Mr Pitt said Pacific Blue offered Hamilton and Dunedin travellers a wide range of one-stop connecting services via Brisbane, including Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.
“Brisbane is a hub for our international services to connect with Virgin Blue’s extensive domestic network in Australia.”
The airline was in the process of finalising all flight times and would publish its detailed northern winter schedule shortly.
PACIFIC BLUE GETS REVVED UP WITH HAMILTON V8 SUPERCARS PARTNERSHIP
Hamilton’s only international airline, Pacific Blue, has become the Official Airline of New Zealand’s sole round of the V8 Supercar Championship in a partnership that will see the airline offer its Guests thousands of free tickets to the three-day event.
Organisers of the ITM400 Hamilton street race on 16-18 April have signed up with Pacific Blue, who will fly in 320 drivers, teams and officials across the Tasman and for the first time, some directly into Hamilton. The partners will also jointly promote the race around New Zealand, giving away tickets to the event for eligible Pacific Blue Guests.
Pacific Blue Regional Sales Manager, Bruce Moffat, said the ITM400 V8 Supercars in Hamilton had quickly become a major event on the New Zealand sporting calendar. “The race is very well supported by locals and visitors and we’re delighted to have teamed up with the organisers this year to assist with crew travel and promote the event further afield in New Zealand.”
As part of the agreement Pacific Blue Guests who fly into Hamilton or Auckland between Monday 13 April and Sunday 18 April will be able to present their valid boarding pass and matching photo id at a special Pacific Blue “check-in desk” at the main entrance to the event and receive a three-day pass valued at $79.
“Anyone who flies with Pacific Blue on these days into Hamilton from Australia, or into Auckland from Queenstown, Dunedin, Christchurch or Wellington or our many Australian and Pacific destinations, will be eligible for the free three-day pass,” Mr Moffat said.
ITM400 Hamilton spokesman, Dean Calvert, said it is an exciting development to be able to fly the drivers, teams and officials on the new international services direct to Hamilton from Australia.
“Having a low fare airline flying directly into Hamilton is proving very useful. One of the challenges has always been to co-ordinate the travel needs of 15 independent racing teams, officials and media. We have been doing this for 10 years now and Pacific Blue have been absolutely exceptional in this respect – the best we have dealt with.
Hamilton Mayor Bob Simcock said it is great to see two big names associated with the city working together to provide visitors with such a unique offer.
“Since hosting the first V8 supercar street race in Hamilton in 2008, each year the event keeps getting better and better. This year’s Pacific Blue/V8 Supercars offer adds another element to the street race and gives even the most unlikely of motorsport fans the opportunity to experience the excitement and adrenalin of this major event for themselves.”
The ITM400 is the fourth round of the V8 Supercar Championship and is the largest annual sporting events in New Zealand having attracted 300,000 fans in the first two years, with around a third of them visitors.
HAMILTON & WAIKATO REGION WELCOMES FUNDING PARTNERSHIP
An extra $250,000 worth of Government funding has been secured by the Hamilton & Waikato region for regional tourism.
This funding is part of the $10 million partnership fund announced today by Prime Minster and Minister of Tourism, John Key, between regional tourism and Central Government.
Hamilton & Waikato’s $250,000 is being matched by Central Government to form a $500,000 fund for marketing activities in Australia over the next six months.
Hamilton & Waikato will be partnering in this joint venture with Hamilton International Airport, Pacific Blue, Tourism Bay of Plenty, Destination Waitomo, Ruapehu Alpine Lifts, and Tourism Dunedin.
Hamilton & Waikato Regional Tourism Manager Kiri Goulter said she believed this was an unprecedented opportunity for New Zealand in the Australian marketplace.
“We congratulate the Government and Tourism New Zealand for implementing this new initiative. It will enable regions to collaborate and collectively maximise opportunities to showcase regional diversity, and we welcome the chance to participate” Ms Goulter stated.
Tourism Bay of Plenty CEO Tim Burgess agrees it is important for regions in New Zealand which don't have such a high profile in Australia to work in partnership.
“There is much more that can be achieved by working together than working in isolation” said Mr Burgess.
When asked about the campaign messaging Ms Goulter stated the opportunity would be used to build awareness of the regions involved and promote Pacific Blue services into Hamilton.
“The core positioning of our campaign will be around soft adventure with reinforcement messaging around city life experiences. We will look to leverage off the firmly established 100% Pure New Zealand brand which Tourism New Zealand has successfully built over the last 10 years” Ms Goulter said.
Hamilton International Airport Chief Executive Chris Doak said the Airport and Pacific Blue were very supportive of this joint venture.
“We see it as an ideal way to help raise the profile of the services and increase the number of Australians flying in to Hamilton to experience the wider region” Mr Doak stated.
“This is a prime example of the real benefit being delivered to the Hamilton & Waikato region, and demonstrates marketing and promotion value to our partners. In time we would like to think that we can participate in future campaigns given continued support from industry and partners."
Click on the below links to check out two print ad examples from the campaign
For further information please contact:
Kiri Goulter
Hamilton & Waikato Regional Tourism Manager
Telephone 021 686 057
Issued by the Waikato Aviation Cluster
NEW ZEALAND AVIATION INDUSTRY MARKS 1000TH PLANE MANUFACTURED IN WAIKATO REGION
Celebrations were held today at Hamilton International Airport commemorating the 1000th aircraft manufactured in the Waikato region of New Zealand.
This major milestone for the New Zealand aviation industry comes nearly 50 years after the first plane rolled off production lines at Pacific Aerospace – the successor to one of New Zealand’s first aviation companies, James Aviation.
Minister of Research Science and Technology, Dr Wayne Mapp, was the keynote speaker at the celebration and said that the aviation industry is a growing and significant contributor to New Zealand’s economy and Government support is strong, and multi-faceted.
“The wider aviation industry employs more than 16,000 staff in more than 700 companies which export goods and services worth more than NZ$800 million. The industry’s goal is to reach NZ$2 billion in exports within the next ten years. Aircraft manufacture and component supply is providing a visible and important face to the industry,” said Minister Mapp.
The 1000 airplanes have been manufactured by four companies and represent eight models including: five models manufactured by Pacific Aerospace - the P-750 XSTOL, CT-4, Cresco, Fletcher and Air Tourer, Alpha Aviation’s Alpha 160A Trainer, Micro Aviation’s Bantam B22 Microlight and Autoflight’s Dominator Gyrocopter.
The largest manufacturer, Pacific Aerospace, holds the honour of achieving the 1000th aircraft with its latest P-750 XSTOL aircraft destined for export to South Africa.
Referring to his company’s accomplishment, Pacific Aerospace CEO, Damian Camp, said, “we are delighted to have produced the one thousandth aircraft. It is a major milestone that highlights the long and colourful history of Pacific Aerospace and the wider aviation cluster. This milestone sets the scene for our company’s continued success and provides emerging manufacturers with an accomplishment they can springboard off.”
Of the 1000 aircraft, Pacific Aerospace produced 627, Micro Aviation produced 333, Alpha Aviation produced 23 and Autoflight produced 17 gyrocopters.
Aircraft from most of the models joined in an impressive air display for Minister Gerry Mapp, aviation industry members, local politicians and industry stakeholders present at today’s celebrations. Each aircraft demonstrated its unique flying capabilities. The Royal New Zealand Air Force also performed an aerobatic demonstration in its Pacific Aerospace-manufactured CT-4 aircraft.
Today’s celebrations were organised by the local cluster of aviation industry companies. Originally formed in 2007 as the Waikato Aviation Cluster, this group of over 50 companies has quickly extended its reach throughout New Zealand and now works alongside Aviation NZ, which has a complimentary export focus.
AIC General Manager, Shaun Mitchell says the success of the cluster has led to it re-launching itself from today as the Aviation Industry Cluster. It will now have a national focus.
“The Aviation Industry Cluster is working to become the Australasian centre of light aircraft manufacturing, maintenance and airline pilot training.
“That means we are developing new capabilities and extra supply chain capacity to attract more company’s to build aircraft in New Zealand. We’re also working hard to support existing manufacturers,” he explained.
Mr Mitchell also said the AIC was collaborating on setting up a state-of-the-art specialist aviation painting facility in Hamilton targeting international aircraft manufacturers throughout Australasia and Southeast Asia.
With several niche aircraft designs, and revolutionary new titanium materials from Bay of Plenty firm Titanox, the New Zealand aviation industry expects the next 1000 aircraft will be produced within 7-10 years. Achieving this new target will raise New Zealand’s profile as the global leader in light aircraft design, modelling, prototyping, certification and production.
“The New Zealand aviation industry has had an exciting history, but the potential for its future is mind-boggling. Industry exports totalled $800 million last year. However, we now have sixteen new aviation projects in the pipeline - fifteen of those being new aircraft designs. These new projects represent a potential $927 million in annual exports,” says Mr Mitchell.
The 16 prototype projects are at different stages with some still requiring investment. The projects include revolutionary designs for an amphibian aircraft, military and civilian gliders, as well as an innovative short haul cargo plane, all of which can be built in New Zealand.
“If New Zealand really wants to make its mark on the global aviation industry, all companies across the country need to work together to become a world-renown hub. The Aviation Industry Cluster is stepping up to take the lead and make it happen,” says Mr Mitchell.
Issued by Waikato Regional Airport Limited
CHAMPAGNE CORKS POP AT AIRPORT
Champagne corks will be popping at Hamilton International Airport this afternoon (Monday, August 31) when Pacific Blue’s Boeing 737-800 lands for the first time.
And even more corks will be popping from 6am tomorrow (Tuesday, September 1) when passengers arrive to celebrate with bubbly before catching the first flight to Sydney just two hours later.
This afternoon’s repositioning flight from Auckland sees the Pacific Blue aircraft take a slightly longer route by flying over Tauranga city around 4pm, before landing in Hamilton about 4.30pm.
Chief executive of Hamilton International Airport, Chris Doak said: ”It’s fantastic to see the Pacific Blue plane in local skies.
“The fly-over brings the Pacific Blue brand to the people of the region. While they can’t touch it, they can see and hear that the new 737-800 is here.”
Onboard will be regional Mayors Bob Simcock (Hamilton), Hugh Vercoe (Matamata-Piako), Alan Livingston (Waipa), Dale Williams (Otorohanga), Peter Harris (Waikato) and Tauranga Mayor, Stuart Crosby.
Joining the Pacific Blue management team on the flight will be airport directors John Birch and Alistair Calder and Mr Doak.
More than 100 business, aviation, community, travel and tourism industry representatives will welcome the aircraft.
Tomorrow more than 130 passengers will fly out to Sydney at 8am after a champagne celebration in the departure lounge.
Among the departing passengers will be airport chairman Jerry Rickman, who will be joined by key journalists and travel agents from around the region to showcase the Pacific Blue experience from Hamilton and the best of what Sydney has to offer.
As Mr Rickman says, “It is a great day for the airport and the region.
“Pacific Blue is the right airline model for this catchment.
“The airport specifically went out to attract a low cost operator into the region because that’s what the region said it wanted.
“Now it’s up to regional travellers flying to Australia and beyond to support and use Pacific Blue,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of council shareholders in the airport, Waipa Mayor Livingston says the resumption of transtasman flights from Hamilton is a major coup for the region, particularly with the support of Tauranga city and Bay of Plenty.
“Pacific Blue deserves every success given their commitment to our region, and we should show our commitment by using their services when we can,” he said.
“We are confident that the 100,000 passengers who have flown every year for the past 10 years on transtasman flights from Hamilton will continue with their allegiance to Pacific Blue,” he said.
The decision by the airline to offer competitively priced flights, together with free parking offered by the airport and not having to drive to Auckland, makes transtasman travel from Hamilton even more compelling than previously.
Mr Livingston said Pacific Blue added further value by offering flights to other Australian destinations from Sydney and Brisbane through its existing network.
The airline’s ability to fly beyond Australia to destinations such as Bali and Vanuatu, and to Los Angeles made travel connections easier and more convenient.
Mr Livingston said Pacific Blue’s frequent flier rewards programme, Velocity, also applied to flights on parent company, Virgin Airlines, which would prove attractive to both business and regular travellers.
“Our biggest challenge now is to encourage travellers from the region to use Pacific Blue instead of flying out of Auckland,” he said.
Mr Doak said bookings for the flights from Australians travelling to Hamilton on Pacific Blue flights were “encouraging and building.”
“Historically, we have been a solid outbound market but inbound bookings as a percentage of ticket sales are better than we have seen before from other carriers,” he said.
What Hamilton, the Waikato and the Central North Island had to offer would appeal to a wide range of Australians with destinations such as the Raglan coast, Waitomo Caves, night life in Hamilton, beaches at Tauranga and Mt Maunganui, and Taupo for fishing, or Tongariro National Park for skiing.
“We are focussed on linking existing international calibre tourism products and helping develop new ones.
“In time, eco-tourism and promoting the significance of our natural resources will become even more important for this region,” he said.
Pacific Blue’s first flight to Brisbane takes off at 7.15am on Saturday, September 5, with around 140 passengers onboard.
Issued by Waikato Regional Airport Limited and Tauranga Airport
HAMILTON, TAURANGA AIRPORTS FORGE ALLIANCE
Hamilton International Airport and Tauranga Airport today announced a strategic alliance to ensure the success of international flights out of Hamilton and build tourism in both regions. The alliance will see Tauranga Airport promoting international flights and connection out of Hamilton on low cost airline, Pacific Blue, which starts scheduled services on
September 1.
In return, Hamilton, as the gateway to the central North Island, will be promoting Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty as a destination to Australian tourists arriving on Pacific Blue from Sydney and Brisbane.
Mayors of Hamilton, Bob Simcock and Tauranga, Stuart Crosby, have lent their support to the alliance, saying that it will bring huge benefits to both regions.
The Mayors say that Pacific Blue will open up previously untapped Australian markets and that the Waikato and Bay of Plenty regions are positioned to offer a new tourism experiences. They see the Pacific Blue network in Australia delivering tourists looking for a fresh experience in New Zealand.
Mr Crosby said Tauranga is endorsing Pacific Blue flights out of Hamilton because it was a fit with a region wanting an international connection. At the same time this was consistent with the Bay of Plenty‘s bio-security focus and separation on behalf of the kiwifruit industry and other significant horticultural operations.
Tauranga airport does not have aspirations to operate as an international airport, Mr Crosby said. “What we now want is a growing domestic operation with easy access to international flights just an hour or so away. “It makes sense for Tauranga as one of New Zealand’s larges and growing cities to endorse Hamilton airport and avoid unnecessary duplication of investments in assets.” The alliance with Hamilton’s airport would bring immediate benefits by drawing Australian tourists to the unique visitor attractions in Tauranga and the region, according to Mr Crosby.
Hamilton Mayor Mr Simcock said with the large investment made at the airport the alliance with Tauranga would mean ratepayers in Tauranga would not have to fund further international development at their airport.
“Just as many Waikato exporters ship through the Port of Tauranga, it makes sense for Tauranga travellers to make use of flights from Hamilton,” he said.
“As collaboration over air and sea travel grows, I’m sure we will see more business going both ways.
“It represents a win-win situation for both regions and makes more effective utilisation of major regional assets.”
Meanwhile, the chief executives of both airports, Chris Doak in Hamilton and Ray Dumble in Tauranga are working closely to develop strategies to capture tourism opportunities. An early objective will be to look at introducing coach services from Tauranga Airport to Hamilton Airport when Pacific Blue starts flights to Sydney and Brisbane on September 1. “This will make it easy for people to choose to use the Hamilton services,” said Mr Dumble.
Pacific Blue has already committed to competitive airfares to Australia from Hamilton, similar to those currently offered from Auckland International Airport. The chief executives said the drive time between airports cut by half the travel time to Auckland. The issue of cheap parking has already been addressed with long-term parking available at Hamilton at a cost of $28 for an unlimited period.
One of the advantages with Pacific Blue was the ability for New Zealanders to fly on to other Australian destinations on Pacific Blue’s network, they said.
The airline’s link with Virgin Airlines and in time V-Australia, meant that passengers could also take flights to Bali and Los Angeles and other global destinations. Pacific Blue, and its associated airlines, offered one travel rewards card which Doak and Dumble said would be attractive to business travellers. Hamilton Airport has just announced it is seeking resource consent to extend its runway out to almost 3000 metres, capable of handling wide-bodied jets to destinations beyond Australia including Asia when demand warrants.
This follows a recent $15.5 million redevelopment of the terminal and a capital injection of $12 million by the airport’s five shareholders, the Hamilton City Council and the Waikato, Waipa, Matamata Piako and Otorohanga District Councils. The airport has been offering Australian and flights to Fiji since 1995, firstly on Kiwi Air, then on Freedom Airlines and more recently on Air New Zealand which ceased transtasman services in late April. Over the past 10 years, 100,000 transtasman passengers a year have been flying out of Hamilton Airport.
Issued by Waikato Regional Airport Limited
AIRPORT SEEKS PLANNING APPROVALS TO EXTEND RUNWAY
Hamilton International Airport is to seek planning approvals to extend its runway to handle wide-bodied jet aircraft in the future at an expected cost of $22 million.
By lengthening the runway to almost 3000 metres, it would become the third longest in New Zealand after Auckland and Christchurch.
Airport chief executive Chris Doak said, however, it is unlikely the runway extension will proceed in the near future as there is no business case for it yet.
The priority is on achieving planning permission which is likely to take up to two years. If granted, the airport would be in a strong position to plan more effectively for future aviation opportunities.
Mr Doak said the airport had recently completed its 20-year master plan which was undertaken by an independent airport planner, providing the blueprint for the proposed runway extension.
It is likely the extension would be completed in two stages with the investment in stage one estimated at around $13 million.
The airport's announcement comes just three days after Pacific Blue Airlines announced it would be flying to Sydney and Brisbane from Hamilton International Airport starting in September.
One of the major outcomes of the proposed project is a longer-narrower noise boundary resulting in significant areas of land coming out of the controlled area, and a reduction in the number of households now contained within it.
Information on the proposal was mailed yesterday to almost 1000 residents living in the proximity of the airport.
An open day to give residents a chance to understand the proposal will be held at the airport on Tuesday, June 16 from 2pm to 8pm in the international arrivals hall.
Mr Doak, said an extended runway in the long-term will allow the airport to break out of the current limited airline market of narrow bodied trans-tasman aircraft.
New opportunities could include:
- Attracting long-haul airlines that land in Australia before picking up transtasman passengers and on flying to New Zealand.
- Attracting long-haul airlines flying directly from Asia to New Zealand as an alternative to Auckland where there is significant competition.
- Attracting airlines operating cargo aircraft that require a longer runway length to fully load their aircraft.
Mr Doak, said the airport's priority is to gain planning approvals as part of the 20-year aeronautical masterplan to guide the future development of the airport.
"Realistically, it could be several years before any development gets underway," he said.
"The runway extension will depend entirely on the business case for such a project.
"What will ultimately drive the development, if approved, will be both airline and shareholder commitments.
"The board considered it prudent to put the planning process in place now so it could quickly to respond to airline interest when that is appropriate in the future," Mr Doak said.
Last year the airport commissioned the University of Waikato's Management School to quantify the benefits of a partial runway extension to 2500 metres.
A report from the University of Waikato estimated that the total economic impact of an extension to 2500 metres over 20 years was estimated to be in the vicinity of $1 billion, representing an increase in regional activity of $50 million per year.
On this basis, the report commented that the benefits were more than double the costs.
The report identified that benefits will flow to the region from increased activity levels in research, education, manufacturing especially agricultural related business.
This included food processing, movement of short-life produce and live produce direct to market, expanded markets through longer-haul services to international hubs, reduced transhipment costs through Auckland, expanded tourism, and greater access to global networks.
The extension would also provide an alternative landing opportunity for diversions from Auckland and Christchurch airports when they were closed and a second international airport for Auckland.
Mr Doak said the proposal will be publicly notified by the Waikato and Waipa District councils later this year and anyone affected will have the opportunity to lodge a submission.
The planning approval is seeking a maximum of a 789 metre sealed extension at the northern end of the main runway, consisting of a 610 metre sealed runway extension and a 188 metre sealed starter extension, giving a total sealed runway of 2984 metres.
A two-staged approach was likely, with the first stage taking the runway out to 2500 metres.
A new instrument landing system and high intensity approach lights is proposed at each end of the runway.
This would provide improved navigation to support aircraft safety and operational capability during low visibility, and consistent with its use by wide body jets.
Long-term, a new taxiway is proposed to be formed parallel with and to the east of the main runway
The extension would require the existing apron to be extended to the north so larger aircraft can be accommodated.
At each end of the main runway, 750metre long runway protection zones will be established according to international standards.
These zones are required to protect the public and property from the risk of an incident from an aircraft undershooting or over shooting the runway.
Some restrictions on land use will be needed although normal agricultural activities will not be impacted
The project will require amendments to the existing planning mechanisms in the Waipa and Waikato District and Hamilton City Council district plans.
There will be changes to the airport noise footprints to reflect the new runway length and changes in aircraft types using it.
Changes will also be required to the obstacle limitation surface boundaries to reflect the longer runway and realignment of cross runways.
There will be changes to various airport land designations on the airport site, including approach lights.
Waikato Regional Airport Limited's commercial and growth manager, Andrew Toop, said the proposed noise footprint boundaries had been updated and modelled based on the latest acoustic modelling software and aircraft traffic predictions through to 2030.
These footprints had to be updated because they were based on data from the early 1990s.
A new noise boundary will result in a reduction of 60 percent of the current total area from 4270 hectares to 1630 ha.
This means about 257 properties will come out of the noise boundary located in the Waikato and Waipa District Council areas.
In Waipa, 270 properties will be removed and 16 added while in the Waikato district there will be an additional 56 properties included and 40 removed.
An additional noise boundary is also proposed and be known as the Night Noise Boundary.
This is based on the noise level of a single aircraft operating at night.
The NNB acknowledges that night time flights to the airport do occur and would benefit from higher standards of sound insulation to mitigate any future potential sleep disturbance.
For more information please click here .
ENDS
For more information contact:
Chris Doak,
Chief Executive,
Waikato Regional Airport Limited
Telephone: 07 848 9030
Or 0274 313616
PACIFIC BLUE DECISION MAJOR BOOST TO REGIONAL ECONOMY
Board chairman of Hamilton International Airport, Jerry Rickman, today described Pacific Blue's decision as a major boost to the airport and the region.
"We are thrilled that Pacific Blue is putting the word ‘international' back into Hamilton International Airport," he said.
"We have been working hard with Pacific Blue management over the past three months to reach agreement.
"The airline was quick to recognise the opportunities created by Air New Zealand who walked away from the airport's 100,000 transtasman travellers a year."
Mr Rickman said the board and the shareholding councils had always remained confident that another airline would quickly grab a well-established market.
"We are reassured by the shareholders' on-going support for the airport during a tough few months, including the call-up of $12 million of unpaid capital," he said.
"The announcement by Pacific Blue helps vindicate the support the airport has received from council shareholders and in particular continuing to build tourism initiatives."
Airport chief executive Chris Doak said attracting Pacific Blue had been the result of a co-ordinated campaign extending over almost two years.
Part of this strategy was research by the airport to identify more fully what the travelling public wanted.
"The research showed people wanted low fares," he said.
"What the research told us was that over 74 percent of travellers were in support of a lower cost airline model and that's exactly what Pacific Blue will deliver."
The announcement is seen as a major milestone in regional airport aviation in New Zealand.
"Pacific Blue is the first new international airline to announce scheduled international operations for 15 years when Kiwi Airlines and then Freedom started low cost services out of Hamilton," Mr Doak said.
"Pacific Blue's commitment to offer match the low air fares that are closely aligned with its fares from Auckland will have a huge impact on numbers.
"Now travellers will know that Hamilton is offering the same cheap airfares, considerably less travel time, and a low cost parking package.
"While Auckland airport is 90 minutes north of the city, passengers still had to be there two hours before an overseas flight and this was considered very inconvenient.
"It meant that travellers were on the road and then waiting for a total of three and a half hours, which was longer than the flight to Australia."
With Pacific Blue's connections throughout Australia, as well as to the United States and Bali, the service would provide regional travellers with a global link.
Mr Doak revealed that one of the reasons that Pacific Blue's board decided to proceed was a campaign by the airport involving more than 20 of the region's biggest corporates.
While he would not name the names, Mr Doak confirmed that Waikato-based corporates provided letters to support using the airline.
This support was given based on Pacific Blue offering very competitive fares to Australia out of Hamilton.
"I'd like to thank these corporates for their support which was given without any hesitation," he said.
Meanwhile, the Mayor of Hamilton, Bob Simcock, congratulated Pacific Blue on its decision.
"Our challenge now is to get the region behind Pacific Blue and support it to the hilt," he said.
Mayor Simcock said it was well known that until recently 20 percent of travellers to Australia from this region, including the Bay of Plenty, preferred using Hamilton airport.
The remaining 80 percent chose to travel out of Auckland.
"This suggests a huge market opportunity for Pacific Blue, said Mayor Simcock.
"There is no real reason why transtasman passengers out of Hamilton could not increase significantly with the right marketing and promotional support in the short term.
"I believe Pacific Blue's offer to have low fares in line with those from Auckland will go a long way to achieving this objective."
The Mayor urged anyone planning to travel to Australia from September to give serious consideration to flying on Pacific Blue."
Support was a two-way street, he said.
"Pacific Blue has shown it is prepared to back the region and in turn the region must show the airline we will support it."
The return of transtasman flights from Hamilton has been welcomed by the Waikato Chamber of Commerce.
Chief executive Wayne Walford said the Chamber's 600 business members will be delighted at the news.
Hamilton Airport had a major role to play in the region's economy and Pacific Blue's decision would support this.
Mr Walford said an economic study of the value of Hamilton airport's transtasman business showed a benefit to the region of $80 million.
"When Air New Zealand removed its Australian offer at Hamilton airport, the Chamber was seriously concerned at the impact this would have, particularly during the recent financial correction," he said.
However, Pacific Blue's decision meant that the transtasman business could quickly be rebuilt.
"Pacific Blue is to be congratulated on its willingness to operate out of Hamilton and it deserves every success," he said.
"We will be encouraging our members to use Pacific Blue and to consider flying beyond Australia with the airline.
"The Chamber is realistic enough to understand that Pacific Blue's long-term commitment to the region will require a high level of support.
"It's the responsibility of everyone in the region to get behind the airline so that it becomes a win-win outcome for all parties," Mr Walford said.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jerry Rickman, chairman Waikato Regional Airport Limited 021 729616
Chris Doak, Chief Executive, Waikato Regional Airport Limited 0274 313616
Bob Simcock, Mayor of Hamilton, 021991071
Wayne Walford, Chief Executive, Waikato Chamber of Commerce, 021 835 865
TITANIUM PARK GETS GREEN LIGHT
10 March 2009
A major mixed-use development planned for the southern outskirts of Hamilton is proceeding apace, and is receiving encouraging pre-sales interest despite the depressed property market.
The Titanium Park development took a significant step forward this month when Waipa District Council granted final approval for a plan change. Close to 117 hectares of rural and aviation land adjoining Hamilton International Airport has been successfully rezoned for commercial and industrial applications.
Titanium Park, a joint venture between Hamilton International Airport and McConnell Property, will build on the existing aviation cluster and accommodate a balance of commercial, industrial and manufacturing businesses, complete with supporting retail operations.
McConnell Property Head of Commercial and Industrial, Nigel Richards, said Titanium Park had been designed with the end user in mind.
"We're committed to making the experience of establishing roots and operating out of Titanium Park as simple and effective as possible," said Mr Richards.
Titanium Park offers customised solutions to suit any size business as well as a range of tenure options, including freehold and a ‘terminating freehold' product on the air-side land. Design-build-leaseback opportunities are also available. Prospective tenants can choose from air-side access and state highway exposure.
Comprehensive infrastructure is a key element of the master-planned site. The development offers fully serviced lots complete with power, water, sewerage and state-of-the-art communications technology. Notably, development levies, which are typically necessary as part of a resource consent process, aren't required.
Another attraction for business is the site's flexible noise control limits, which allow Titanium Park to support noise-generating activities around the clock.
Flanked by State Highways 1, 3 and 21, Titanium Park is at the core of one of New Zealand's largest export regions.
New and existing businesses will benefit from Titanium Park's strategic location, within easy reach of road, air and rail transport options, said Mr Richards.
"This development has the potential to create a truly vibrant commercial and industrial hub for a region which, to date, hasn't been widely recognised as an option by businesses."
Hamilton Airport Chief Executive Chris Doak emphasised Titanium Park's role in the Airport's long-term development plans.
"Increasingly, airport business is about improving the utilisation of land assets. Titanium Park will play an important role in the economic development of the surrounding region as companies begin to take up residence within the Park, and contribute diversified revenue streams for the airport."
"We're delighted to receive the District Council's approval for this important regional development, and look forward to Titanium Park supporting the Airport as a strategic asset for the region," said Mr Doak.
Site works for the new business development could begin as early as the middle of this year.
For further information contact:
Nigel Richards Chris Doak
Head of Industrial and Commercial Chief Executive Officer
McConnell Property Hamilton International Airport
Tel. 09 374 3300 Tel. 07 848 9027
BIG BOOST FOR REGIONAL TOURISM
19 February 2009
Hamilton International Airport today announced a move to boost regional tourism in the central North Island.
The airport has just appointed Kiri Goulter to take up a role of regional tourism manager.
Ms Goulter, who starts on March 9, is currently development manager for Tourism
New Zealand where for the past two years she has played a key role in supporting a number of regional initiatives and tourism strategies.
Her appointment is seen as the first step in filling the gap left when Tourism Waikato closed after funding was withdrawn.
According to Hamilton International Airport chief executive Chris Doak, the airport will become the catalyst for rebuilding the central North Island tourism destination.
"This had become even more of a priority since Air New Zealand had pulled the plug on international flights," he said.
Shareholding councils in the airport, Hamilton and the Waikato, Waipa, Matamata Piako and Otorohanga District Councils, had given their full support for the project.
Waipa Mayor, Alan Livingston, speaking on behalf of the shareholders, said "the ultimate goal is to establish a regional tourism organisation within the next two years as part of the New Zealand-wide network."
"We see Hamilton airport playing critical role in taking tourism in the region forward."
Mr Livingston said councils were comfortable with the new direction which was to create a viable tourism experience in the wider region.
Funding was committed for the next two years to make it happen, he said.
Tourism New Zealand's chief executive George Hickton, while sorry to see Ms Goulter leave Tourism New Zealand, welcomed a co-ordinated effort in terms of Waikato's tourism industry.
"Co-ordination of tourism product is vital to a region both in the domestic and international markets," Mr Hickton said.
"While the New Zealand tourism industry is one of our largest export earners, it is made up of a number of small players who are only able to cut through into a market with a co-ordinated approach."
Mr Doak said the new regional tourism manager would also ensure the wider region was fully represented at all major travel trade and convention expos and would ultimately tap into the opportunities offered through Tourism New Zealand.
The focus on rebuilding the regional destination would strengthen efforts to influence a new low cost airline to fill the gap left by Air New Zealand.
He acknowledged the significant support from the shareholding councils for the initiative - and the significant work being done in the background by the Council Mayors and CEOs in support of the airport.
"We remain optimistic that we will achieve our objectives, particularly when the region has delivered a proven market of over one million travellers in the past 10 years.
Meanwhile, Mr Doak has just returned from Singapore where he attended a global conference on low cost airlines.
Keynote speakers included the chief executives of several of the world's major low cost carriers.
Mr Doak had pre-arranged individual presentations with airline executives which he could not name because of commercial sensitivity and on-going discussions.
Discussions also centred around incentives that the airport was prepared to offer a new low cost airline, including substantial marketing support now available as a result of the tourism initiative.
He did not discount any interest in additional domestic connections given capacity constraints between Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch specifically.
Mr Doak said the move by the airport to rebuild regional tourism would help strengthen the level of interest shown by the low cost airlines.
For more information contact Chris Doak, Chief Executive, Waikato Regional Airport Limited, Telephone 0274 313616.
