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Runway Reseal Marks Key Step in Kaitaia Airport Upgrade
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 15 hours ago
Major works at Kaitaia Airport continue to make strong progress as part of the $5.4 million Upgrade and Resilience Programme being delivered for the Far North.
Far North Holdings, which manages and operates the aerodrome on behalf of Far North District Council, is overseeing the planning and delivery of the project, with all works currently on schedule for completion by the end of August 2026.
A major milestone was completed earlier this month, with the sealed main runway and apron fully resurfaced following a carefully coordinated 10-day airport closure. The temporary closure allowed contractors to safely complete the large-scale reseal works while minimising disruption to normal flight operations through close collaboration with airline operators and aeromedical service providers.
Earlier this week, Far North Holdings Board members and local councillors Felicity Foy and Hilda Halkyard-Harawira visited Kaitaia Airport, to view the completed runway reseal and review progress across the wider upgrades.
Far North Holdings Chief Operating Officer Rob Binney said the cooperation shown throughout the closure period had been invaluable.
Our thanks go to everyone involved for working alongside us throughout the runway closure and upgrade works. The completed improvements will help future-proof Kaitaia Airport and ensure it continues delivering safe and efficient services for Te Hiku into the future
A timelapse video captured the resealing process and also documents the scale and progress of the Upgrade and Resilience Programme.
Wherever possible, local contractors have been engaged throughout the programme, reflecting a strong focus on supporting the regional economy and workforce.
Additional upgrade works are also progressing well across the site, including:
New security stock fencing now 30% complete
Drainage upgrades 50% complete
Runway lighting upgrades scheduled to begin later in May
Manufacture of a new aircraft rescue facility now underway off-site
Concept design work is also progressing on an enhanced terminal building, alongside wider airport improvements aimed at significantly improving the traveller experience.
The resilience programme is designed to strengthen the airport’s long-term safety, reliability and operational performance, ensuring it remains a vital transport connection for communities across Te Hiku and the wider Far North.
This collaborative project is being delivered by Far North Holdings on behalf of Far North District Council, working in partnership with iwi and hapū landowners, airline operators and the wider community.
