Taupō Airport expansion gains government funding boost

New Zealand’s Regional Economic Development Minister, Shane Jones, has announced that Taupō Airport (TUO) is set to benefit from an upgrade and expansion as a result of a $5.9 million government funding boost. The project will work to modernise the current terminal, extend the car park and upgrade the runway apron and is expected to create 60 jobs during construction.

Jones said: “Taupō Airport is the gateway to the Central North Island. It is essential for keeping local people and businesses connected, but also to bring more people to the region. The airport’s current infrastructure limits tourism and growth opportunities. Visitor numbers to the region are growing at a rate of 15 per cent a year. A modern and comfortable airport will grow these numbers, and the regional economy, even further.” 

The funding consists of $5 million from the Provincial Growth Fund and $870,000 from central government. As part of the New Zealand’s wider Upgrade Programme, $300 million was allocated for regional infrastructure investment opportunities, which is to be administered by the Provincial Development Unit.

Jones continued: “These changes will enable larger planes and more travellers to be accommodated at the airport. They will also have positive flow-on effects for communities, businesses and whānau across the central North Island. From Kerikeri to Invercargill, we are keeping regions connected through careful and considered investments in airports. It gives a boost to so many sectors and I’m pleased to be announcing this great news for Taupō today.”