Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) will not challenge the High Court decision on the Wanaka Airport lease. 

In a judgement released on April 21 the court said the council’s granting of the lease to the Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) was unlawful and it would be set aside, and today (May 12) the QLDC said it has ruled out an appeal and will instead concentrate on providing stability for businesses at the airport.

“The focus for the council is on reassuring businesses operating from Wanaka Airport that the priority at this stage is to ensure there is minimal disruption or uncertainty,” Mayor Jim Boult said.

“There’s a lot of work to do right now to just keep the airport running safely for the 30 plus operators and the 300 people who work at or in support of Wanaka Airport.”

Mayor Jim Boult said any future planning for development at Wanaka Airport would include “robust consultation”. PHOTO: Supplied

Before the lease was implemented in 2018 the council had a management services agreement with QAC to oversee the day-to-day running of the airport. 

See also: High Court rules Wanaka Airport lease illegal

“It is critical to ensure the airport continues to operate safely and the seamless solution is to enter into an interim arrangement with QAC to continue managing the airport.”

A group of protesters rallied outside a council meeting last month following the High Court ruling. PHOTO: Wanaka App

Council would be asked to consider options for a longer term management service agreement, which will come to full council in the coming months, he said. 

No timeframes had been discussed regarding future long-term options for air services in the Upper Clutha, Jim said, adding that QLDC would not be “rushing into” any long term planning or optioneering. 

A statement from the council said Jim acknowledged “that any potential future development of Wanaka Airport had divided some members of the Upper Clutha community and that council would be very mindful of ensuring robust consultation and reflecting the full range of views when considering any future planning.”



Councillors will now take time to discuss what the future looks like for Wanaka Airport “and consider how we can best consult with the community to hear all perspectives,” Jim said.