Old Airways Control Tower makes way for residential housing

Last week, Wellington Airport’s contractor, Central Demolition, safely completed the demolition of the old Airways Control Tower on Rongotai’s Tirangi Road.

Wellington Airport bought the control tower from Airways in October 2020 as its demolition was required to improve airspace safety and efficiency. Alternative uses for the tower were not viable due to asbestos and structural deficiencies.

Wellington Airport’s Manager Property Richard Dalby said: “We know the tower was well loved by locals, but we have to consider the safety of both travellers and the neighbouring properties when making plans for the land. The tower had reached the end of its life and it also penetrated the airport’s Obstacle Limitation Surface, an area of airspace around the airport which is required to be free from obstacles”.

Throughout the demolition, Wellington Airport salvaged and recycled as much of the existing material as possible. The building’s original sign was also donated to the Wellington Aero Club as part of their aeronautical collection.

The site is zoned residential, and the airport is now making plans to sell the land to enable two standalone houses to replace the tower.