Future of northernmost airport secured through agreement.
The Government, Iwi and Far North District Council have reached an agreement to secure the future of Kaitaia Airport. A long-term lease for the airport has been agreed upon between Iwi and the council, while the Government will commit $5.4m towards maintenance and upgrade work.
According to Māori Crown Relations Minister Tama Potaka, Kaitaia Airport is a vital regional asset providing services to the community, including regional air ambulance flights and an alternative to State Highway 10. The airport land was offered to NgāiTakoto as part of their Treaty settlement in 2012 on the condition that airport operations would continue.
With this agreement, a pathway has now cleared for NgāiTakoto to purchase the land, which will occur in the immediate future. The airport's future operation is now secured through the long-term lease and Government investment. Mr Potaka thanked Iwi and hapū for their ongoing commitment to reaching a resolution.
This development provides relief for many people who were concerned about issues relating to ownership and degradation of the airport facilities. The agreement ensures that Kaitaia Airport will continue to operate, providing essential services to the community.