"NZ Govt Report/ Public Opposed To 2nd Auckland Airport"

Wednesday, July 7, 2004

NZ Govt Report/ Public Opposed To 2nd Auckland Airport
Dow Jones


WELLINGTON (Dow Jones)--Local communities are strongly opposed to the
Whenuapai air force base being used as a second commercial airport for
New Zealand's largest city Auckland, according to a government report
released Wednesday. 

A joint statement by the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Economic
Development said the report shows the need for a thorough analysis
before a final decision about the future of Whenuapai is made. 

Jim Anderton, Minister of Economic Development, said the current debate
focuses on whether Whenuapai should be developed into a commercial
airport. 

"Before a decision can be made it is clear that the implications of this
option need to be investigated further - notably whether or not there is
a need for a second commercial airport in the Auckland region," he said.


According to the report, 75% of the public who made submissions were
opposed to a commercial airport compared with only 21% supporting it. 

But the report said with the exception of Auckland International Airport
Ltd. (AIA.NZ), the airline industry supported a second commercial
airport "on competition and convenience grounds." 

The Royal New Zealand Air Force, which currently uses the Whenuapai
base, is expected to consolidate its operations at another base over a
five year period.

The public consultation process is part of an ongoing government review
to determine the long-term future of the 311 hectares of land to be
vacated. 

In April last year infrastructure investor Infratil Ltd. (IFT.NZ) and
the Waitakere City Council signed an agreement to work together on the
development of the land and facilities as a commercial airport which
would serve low cost airlines. 

Auckland International Airport, the country's main visitor gateway,
opposes a new airport being built. 

Anderton said the cabinet has directed the Ministry of Economic
Development to produce a comprehensive government report to determine
the best option for Whenuapai. 

"This work will build on the consultation already done with local
communities," he said. 

Anderton didn't say when the next government report will be completed.


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