Air we go again as Kaitāia Airport runway reopens after reseal

Kaitāia Airport has officially reopened following the successful completion of a runway reseal, with the first flight landing just hours after work wrapped up.

The work was completed over 10 days and was completed at 3.30pm on Monday 27 April, with operations resuming the same evening when the first aircraft touched down at 7pm.

Far North Holdings Limited are project managing the contract, with Downer’s undertaking the main works.  Project Manager Andrew Bere-Adams said “Favourable weather conditions played a critical role in ensuring the reseal was delivered within a tight timeframe. The ideal weather window allowed crews to carry out the work efficiently and safely, avoiding delays and enabling a smooth transition back to normal operations.”

Hilary Sumpter, Group Manager for Delivery and Operations said “Commercial operators were acknowledged for their cooperation during the temporary suspension of flights. Their support helped minimise disruption and ensured the project could proceed as planned within the limited closure period.”

Attention is now turning to the next stages of development at the airport. The partnership group of Far North Holdings, FNDC, Cr Hilda Halkyard-Harawira, Rangitane Marsden of Ngai Takato, Robert Cabel, Chair of Te Paatu Marae, Wikātana Popata, Ngai Tohianga hapū, leading the project is progressing plans to reinstate fuel services, implement a new airfield lighting system, extend the carpark, and build a manager’s house.

The next stages of the plans include redeveloping or replacing the terminal, alongside placemaking work in collaboration with the three hapū that own the land.

You can read more about the project here.