Apron extension

Project overview

The final phase of the Taupō Airport upgrade project is underway with an extension to the airport apron so that more parked aircraft can be accommodated.

The extension of the apron marks the completion of a wider upgrade to the airport that saw the construction of the new terminal building and the sealing of the car park in 2023.

The apron is being extended with a 3,100 square metre asphalt surface to the south of the existing apron, complete with ground lighting and revised aircraft guidance markings to the new and existing apron areas. Upgraded and additional floodlighting has already been installed in conjunction with the terminal redevelopment to maintain security for parked aircraft.

Airport General Manager Wayne Wootton says the extension will mean the Airport has much needed extra parking space for charter aircraft, particularly jets.

“It also means we have the ability to provide additional room for commercial planes in case of delays caused by mechanical or weather related disruption,” Mr Wootton says. “Since the opening of the new terminal, we have seen an increase in jet charter movements with 130 visiting Taupō in the last 12 months alone.”

The construction work will not impact airport schedules or passengers. The work is expected to be completed in 12 weeks and during the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in December 2024, the construction work will be phased to allow for the increased traffic at the airport.