Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) has begun a procurement process for consultants to undertake community consultation on the future of Wānaka Airport.

The council signalled last year it would begin to work on a long-term planning process for Wānaka Airport in this financial year (2024-2025), which would “form the basis of a future masterplan”. 

Funding for a future review for the airport was included in the Long Term Plan (LTP) adopted by councillors in September.

QLDC says key questions to consider during the review include: the community and stakeholder vision for Wānaka Airport; how to ensure community engagement is effective; and potential scenarios for the airport and its future management.

In October, representatives of the Wānaka Airport Users Group, Wānaka Stakeholders Group Inc (WSG), Wao Aotearoa, Albert Town Community Association, Cardrona Ratepayers and Residents Society, Hāwea Community Association, Luggate Community Association, and Mt Barker & District Residents' Association met with the Wānaka Upper Clutha Community Board (WUCCB) to outline six ‘key principles’ they want to guide the planning process.

The groups asked that the master planning process be independent, transparent, and locally accountable.

Read more: Community groups call for ‘transparent’ airport planning

A skydiver’s view of Wānaka Airport.

A QLDC spokesperson told the Wānaka App the procurement process now underway will seek “the independent delivery” of the Wānaka Airport Future Review.

“The intended response being sought includes a mix of aeronautical, social, economic, legal and consultation/strategic communication expertise.”

He said the process would involve extensive engagement with key stakeholders, the Wānaka-Upper Clutha community and wider Queenstown Lakes District.

QLDC said details for the review and subsequent community engagement will be shared after a consultant has been appointed and a timeline agreed, which was expected by February 2025.

Wānaka Airport is owned by QLDC and Queenstown Airport Corporation manages Wānaka Airport’s day-to-day operations on behalf of QLDC under a management services agreement.

These management services include noise monitoring, property management, regulatory planning and compliance, and liaising with the airport community on day-to-day matters.

PHOTOS: Supplied