Blueprint for the future

Our masterplan outlines our vision for the next 20 years, creating a blueprint that leaves the airport well placed for the future.

By 2040, we expect 12 million passengers to fly in and out of Wellington Airport every year - double the current numbers.

The recent terminal expansion has done well to keep pace with domestic growth but the international facilities are already facing congestion at peak times. The availability of gates is constrained during busy periods and busing of regional passengers is often required.

The forecast growth will mean demand will exceed existing capacity and we need additional land to accommodate the airport’s operations and the new generation of aircraft that are carrying increasing numbers of passengers more efficiently.

As an international airport, Wellington has an extremely small 110 hectare footprint compared to Auckland Airport’s 1500 hectares and Christchurch’s 750 hectares. This makes us one of the most efficient and innovative airports in the world – but it limits our options. Growth to the south and east is the most feasible option given the airport’s geographical constraints.

As a truly city airport, we acknowledge our responsibility to our neighbouring community and will work closely with them to ensure they are fully engaged.

Aircraft emissions are currently 2% of all global carbon emissions and domestic aviation contributes to about 1% of New Zealand’s total carbon emissions. While Wellington's passenger numbers are forecast to double in 20 years, aircraft movements are forecast to increase by 50%. At the same time the next generation aircraft are 20% to 30% more efficient and the International Air Transport Association has committed to reduce airline emissions by 50% by 2050. Wellington Airport is targeting net zero emissions by 2030.

In addition to the our planned changes to infrastructure, we will also watch with interest the progress of the Let’s Get Wellington Moving programme. While the number of travellers are growing, there is a significant number of people moving between the eastern suburbs to the city centre and beyond.

We need a world-class 21st Century multi-modal transport solution which meets the needs of motorists and those choosing public transport. We will be ready to enable any public transport solution, but ideally it links directly to the city centre in order to provide the maximum benefit for current and future travellers.