Council backs future of Kāpiti Coast Airport

Kāpiti Coast District Council has rejected claims it supports the closure of Kāpiti Coast Airport, reaffirming its long-standing support for retaining air services in the district, regardless of who owns the land.

Mayor Janet Holborow said the Council sees a long-term future for the airport and remains committed to supporting its continued operation.

“The airport is an invaluable asset for Kāpiti and is critical to the district’s growth and resilience. We remain committed to working with the landowners and doing what we can to help ensure it remains in operation,” Mayor Holborow said.

Mayor Holborow said the Council was not in a position to purchase the airport, but would use the levers available to it, including advocating to central government where needed, to help keep the airport viable and attractive to future owners.

She said strong air connections are important for Kāpiti’s economy, visitor sector, community connectivity, and wider regional resilience.

“We have a vibrant local economy, with strong innovation and business success. Air links between Kāpiti and our largest city are critical to business growth and the wellbeing of our visitor economy,” Mayor Holborow said.

“The airport also plays an important role in connecting whānau and friends, and in supporting the Wellington Region Civil Defence and Emergency Management Plan – it is listed in Greater Wellington’s proposed change 1 to the Regional Policy Statement for the Wellington Region as a regionally significant infrastructure.”

“We know there is strong hapū, stakeholder, and public interest in the airport’s future, and we will continue to monitor developments closely.”