Airport sets sights on project delivery

HB Airport is firmly focused on making significant progress across a number of critical strategic projects including the business park development, a joint venture with Manawa Energy for the solar farm at the airport and growing air freight services.

HB Airport chief executive Rob Stratford says all three projects are aimed at developing airport infrastructure that serves the needs of the Hawke’s Bay region.

“The airport is a critical piece of infrastructure that acts as a gateway to Hawke’s Bay. These initiatives are all about helping enable regional prosperity.

“The airport has an important role in regional efforts to grow and future-proof Hawke’s Bay’s connectivity to the rest of New Zealand and beyond.

“That’s why we will be actively pursuing opportunities to contribute to regional economic development discussions and playing our part to ensure Hawke’s Bay has the best possible integrated transport infrastructure to support a thriving economy.”

The airport will continue to pursue its commitment to becoming New Zealand’s most sustainable airport with a goal to be carbon neutral by 2030. An immediate priority in 2023 is to explore the addition of EV charging stations at the airport to support EV drivers as well as its airport tenants’ EV goals.

Rob says with COVID19 now behind them 2023 is the year to build back stronger and already passenger numbers are above forecast.

Many of the capital investment projects planned prior to COVID, such as the airside apron resurfacing, carpark upgrades and fire equipment improvements are now firmly back on the agenda.

Rob is confident that the airport will weather any economic downturn, having proved a sharp focus on disciplined financial management, together with intelligent planning and decision-making over the last three years.

“We are in a good position to withstand a rocky economic road through 2023. The risk of economic recession is always a potential challenge for any airport. Airlines are the first to feel the effects of economic headwinds, as spending on business and leisure travel reigns in.

“The fundamentals of our regional economy are strong and resilient; and the agility and tenacity of our business community has shown through Covid stand us in good stead to withstand whatever 2023 holds.

“And let’s not forget, Hawke’s Bay is attractive to visitors all year round as well as being a thriving and prosperous place to live, work and play.