I finally got round to updating my online photo gallery. In particular, here's some work in progress of Wellington Airport's south end runway over the last few months, plus a couple of terminal pics thrown in. (This may take a while to load.)

10 Jun 2006:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010327.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010328.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010330.jpg

2 Jul 2006:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000146.jpg

16 Jul 2006:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000149.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000150.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000152.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000153.jpg

20 Aug 2006:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000297.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000300.jpg

16 Sep 2006:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000428.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000429.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000430.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000434.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000436.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000446.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000447.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000449.jpg

7 Oct 2006:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000596.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000597.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000598.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000599.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000600.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000601.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000602.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000603.jpg

Fantastic! Thanks for starting a WIA sight Deepred - brilliant. Looks

Looks like work is progressig well in Wellington! Will be looking forward to more pictures and development from the Capitals Airport. I think you guys are going to have the best international terminal in the country when it's finished.

Wellington International must be one of the worlds most exciting airports to travel in and out of - So.....

Who's flowen in or out of Wellington and what was it like?

I have, in the day and night, great views, and landing and take off smooth as silk. Just shocked at how the runway disappeared and you were over the water!!

Wellington International must be one of the worlds most exciting airports to travel in and out of - So.....

Who's flowen in or out of Wellington and what was it like?

I have, in the day and night, great views, and landing and take off smooth as silk. Just shocked at how the runway disappeared and you were over the water!!
Apparently pilots rate landing at WIAL as memorable as that of the former Kai Tak Airport at Hong Kong. It may be all the more so if WIAL manages to pull off the B787 long-haul deal. Guess we'll watch this space...

Theyve been talking about these runway safety zones (the tunnel pics) since the 1980s. Any word on whether they will do the north end too deepred?

Apparently pilots rate landing at WIAL as memorable as that of the former Kai Tak Airport at Hong Kong. It may be all the more so if WIAL manages to pull off the B787 long-haul deal. Guess we'll watch this space...


Rumours around the place of long haul destinations?? :)

The north end will have to be done too eventually, since the ICAO (www.icao.int) requires it.

Here's a bit of a backgrounder:
http://wellingtonairport.co.nz/html/business/news.php#20060806

^^
The north end would be far more costly and difficult than the southern end I would imagine. Isnt the increase in height about 4m from the southern end of the runway to the northern end?

^^
The north end would be far more costly and difficult than the southern end I would imagine. Isnt the increase in height about 4m from the southern end of the runway to the northern end?
Surprisingly, WIAL says the North end will be a smaller project. There's not the ditch filling that's needed for the South end.

Three

WIAL Press Release:

Runway safety plans bring Wellington Airport in line with new international standards

Wellington Airport has finalised plans for the Northern Runway End Safety Area (RESA), providing a cost-effective solution to international safety standards while maximising the operating capability of the runway.

The Northern RESA, expected to cost $7.5 million in its own right, is part of a $31m investment in safety by the Airport to provide RESAs at both ends of the runway. This commitment provides an extra 90x90 metre margin of safety beyond the runway proper, and complies with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standard for international airports and the new CAA Rule for RESAs.

A range of options were considered. After extensive deliberations, the proposal selected best balanced cost considerations with the need to improve safety and aircraft operations. It also avoids the need to change State Highway 1 or the Evans Bay foreshore as the RESA will be built within the existing airport boundary.

"Wellington Airport has always been constrained, so it is critical that we provide as much runway length as possible. These improvements increase safety for all aircraft and enhance the operating potential of many aircraft, including B737s operated two of the major international airlines," said Simon Draper, CEO.

The Northern RESA project is expected to be completed towards the end of 2007.
At the south, the bridging of Moa Point Road has created space for the 90m Southern RESA. The new Moa Point underpass is complete and is now partially open to traffic. Further earthworks will remove the 'ditch' at this end of the runway, and the laying of the Southern RESA is due for completion in July 2007.

Wellington Airport acknowledges the cooperation of Transit and Wellington City Council in RESA studies undertaken during the planning stage. Discussions were held with major airlines, pilots, Airways New Zealand and external consultants in developing the best design for the Northern RESA.

Issued by: Wellington International Airport Limited

Enquiries to:
Louise Murray
Media Relations
Mobile 027 256 8352

Date: 12/10/2006

I like how that Southern safety road tunnel is all artistic with the wall patterns, should be cool to see the northern one built in the same way.

I like how that Southern safety road tunnel is all artistic with the wall patterns, should be cool to see the northern one built in the same way.
According to WIAL, the wall patterns are based on runway markings that were used to guide DC8s and B747SPs when they landed at WLG many years ago. Not sure what the north end will look like, since I don't think there'll be a tunnel there.

Here's a pic I captured for Wellington Airport's entry on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wellington_Airport):

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1000669.jpg

Great - love the vapour trail off the 737's wings.

^^^ Fabulous pic

Projects:

*
Stage 1 of international terminal upgrade (new duty free stores, improved passenger service areas) $12.7m Due for completion Dec 06
*
Extra aircraft gate, upgrade of aerobridges and improvements to passenger areas $12.7m Due to commence Dec 06
*
Southern runway end safety area $23.5m Due for completion mid 07
*
Northern runway end safety area $7.5m Due to commence mid 07
*
Checked bag screening facilities $1.65m Completed Dec 05
*
Upgrade of regional aircraft parking areas $600,000 Completed Dec 05
*
Stage 2 on the international terminal project (expansion of departure lounge, additional aerobridge gate) TBA Dependent on outcome of the application for a Tasman “code-share” between Qantas and Air New Zealand

Hey there guys...david.... what are the passenger levels at this airport? i take it is NZ's number 3?

Hey there guys...david.... what are the passenger levels at this airport? i take it is NZ's number 3?

Hi Michael - long time no hear!!

NZ's #3 international, mainly Australia and the Pacific Islands, heavy domestic usage because of Wellingtons strategic position between AKL and CHC - will try to find the numbers for you!

How's Durbs new airport plans going??

WIA website says 4.5 million for the year 31st March 2006, with 114,000 aircraft movements! Couldn't find the break down of international and domestic passangers.

WIA website says 4.5 million for the year 31st March 2006, with 114,000 aircraft movements! Couldn't find the break down of international and domestic passangers.
From WIAL owner Infratil's web site:

In the year to 31 March 2006 Wellington Airport was used by 4,006,576 million domestic and 564,990 international passengers.

International passengers calculate to about 12% of the total.

For comparison, AIAL had 11.4 million passengers (6.1m int'l, or 53% of total) as of early 2006, and CIAL about 5.5 million (1.5m int'l, or 27% of total).

From WIAL owner Infratil's web site:



International passengers calculate to about 12% of the total.

For comparison, AIAL had 11.4 million passengers (6.1m int'l, or 53% of total) as of early 2006, and CIAL about 5.5 million (1.5m int'l, or 27% of total).

That would add up to

AIAL 6.1m int'l | 5.3m dom TOTAL 11.4m
WIAL 0.56m int'l | 4.0m dom TOTAL 4.5m
CIAL 1.5m int'l | 4.0m dom TOTAL 5.5m

Real interesting figures guys - thanks

From the DomPost:

Opponents pleased with deal rejection
03 November 2006
by CATHERINE HARRIS

Opponents of Qantas and Air New Zealand's proposed code-sharing deal have welcomed its preliminary rejection by Australia's competition watchdog.

But Air New Zealand itself hinted the ruling could mean cuts to capacity and routes.

"We cannot continue to fly our current schedule on a route with the equivalent of 43 empty A320 aircraft across the Tasman daily," Air NZ chief financial officer Rob McDonald said in a statement.

"That's 6300 empty seats every day."

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) said in a draft decision today that the proposal's benefits did not outweigh the likely "significant" costs to the consumer in terms of higher prices and reduced travel options.

"Authorisation of the agreement would fundamentally change the competitive process on the trans-Tasman," ACCC chairman Graeme Samuel said.

Between them, the two airlines handle about 80 per cent of the trans-Tasman passenger market. They also own budget offshoots JetStar and Freedom Air.

The codeshare plan meant Qantas and Air New Zealand would confer on scheduling and pricing.

In 2002 the High Court in New Zealand rejected a more formal alliance between the two airlines affecting all their flights within, into and out of New Zealand.

The ACCC said Qantas and Air NZ faced some competition from Emirates and Virgin Blue but that the rivals would not be able to offset the effects of lessened competition because they faced barriers to expanding on the route.

"The ACCC considers that the agreement would only result in limited public benefits in the form of cost savings to the airlines as well as marginal improvements in schedule spread, connectivity and frequent flyer options for consumers," Mr Samuel said.

Shares in Air NZ dipped 7c to $1.38 after the news but Auckland Airport gained 3c to $2.08.

Infratil, a 66 per cent shareholder in Wellington Airport and vocal opponent of the scheme, said it was "absolutely" the right decision for trans-Tasman competition.

If Air NZ cut services, Qantas or Virgin Blue would no doubt fill the gap, Infratil's manager Lloyd Morrison said.

"I think Air NZ's been doing a very, good job of getting its business operating well and improving its brand. I think that (Air NZ ceo) Rob Fyfe has been doing a superb job. . .and I would be amazed if he wasn't not on a growth path regardless of the outcome.

Mr Morrison said the decision would "hopefully, ultimately,. . .be good for the regional and domestic markets in New Zealand and I think it will be good for both carriers, keep them both focussed."

From the DomPost:

Airlines abandon battle for code sharing
16 November 2006
By ROELAND van den BERGH

Air New Zealand and Qantas have withdrawn their application for a trans-Tasman code-share agreement, ending a four-year battle for the airlines to come together.

Wellington business and political leaders have welcomed the decision, which ensures that competition will continue between the airlines that collectively control 80 per cent of the market.

Air New Zealand said it would now review its trans-Tasman business during the next few months, but chief executive Rob Fyfe backed away from his earlier threat to raise fares or reduce seat numbers out of Wellington if the code share failed.

There would be no immediate changes to schedules or prices, he said. The airline had lost $35 million on its services to the capital since 2003.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission last week emphatically rejected the code-share proposal, which would have allowed the airlines to collude on price and services in a bid to stem huge losses on the route.

A similar application to the New Zealand Transport Ministry has also been withdrawn.

Mr Fyfe said there was little chance of overturning the Australian commission's draft decision and an appeal would also take another year, tying up resources better used on other big projects.
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The code share was in the best interests of customers and the best solution to tackle the oversupply of seats on the Tasman while retaining a low fare structure, he said.

Wellington International Airport led a vigorous and often acrimonious campaign against the code share.

The city would have been the hardest hit by the code share, losing all competition on Melbourne and Sydney services and a total of seven flights a week.

But last night the airport, along with political and business leaders, held out an olive branch, promising to work more closely with the airlines to improve the performance of Wellington trans-Tasman services.

Airport chief executive Simon Draper said he was relieved and the decision would make it easier for the airport and airlines to work together.

"Our concern was always about the code-share proposal, never the airlines themselves," Mr Draper said.

Wellington Mayor Kerry Prendergast said the council hoped Air New Zealand would "find a solution that doesn't impact on Wellington region's competitiveness, by either increasing prices or reducing capacity out of Wellington airport".

Wellington Chamber of Commerce chief executive Charles Finny said businesses welcomed the decision.

"What concerned us was the prospect for the services to be reduced and prices to go up without the possibility of there being a competitive response."

Consumers Institute chief executive David Russell said consumers would look to a rational commercial decision from Air New Zealand, though service cuts were likely.

You can find a lot of interesting shit at your local library - especially if it's the Wellington Public Library.

Here's a glimpse of what Wellington Airport could have been, but never was.

Section 6.2 of the 1985 Fyson Report (http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/WIAL%20Documents/WIAL-report-1985-Section-6.gif) for WIAL.
Notes of interest: The front cover of the report shows a 747SP landing at WIAL with full brakes. "Nobody in 1950 would have predicted such a large aircraft as the B747SP using a runway of just 1935m length." The issues in section 6.2.2 are being addressed as this is being written.

Section 7.3 of the 1985 Fyson Report (http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/WIAL%20Documents/WIAL-report-1985-Section-7.gif) for WIAL. Adjusted for inflation, the more liberal cost prediction outlined in section 7.3.4 is about right, when compared with the cost of building the current safety runoff extensions.

Section 8.3 & 8.4 of the 1985 Fyson Report (http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/WIAL%20Documents/WIAL-report-1985-Section-8.gif) for WIAL. The south end of the runway has been tunnelled over, but the north end won't.

Section 4.1.3 of the 1991 Airplan NZ report (http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/WIAL%20Documents/WIALreport1991Section4.gif).

Map of proposed airport expansions from the 1991 Airplan NZ report. (http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/WIAL%20Documents/WIALreport1991map.gif) This proposal was for the runway to be upgraded to Category 1 ILS. You can see why the local residents and golfers kicked up a stink. The area south of the runway labelled "GA/Freight & Commercial" is now the Airport Retail Park.

Latest pics @ WIAL now online. More pics @ Photobucket, including a welcome sign for the Korean head of state, and some new covered walkways in the car park.

The 1st stage of the new International Terminal is still in construction, but now functional:
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010191.jpg
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010192.jpg

Any idea what these concrete blocks are for? They've been around for a long while, so they might originally have been for a land reclamation job that never proceeded. Or else they might be for filling in the south end safety runoff.
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010183.jpg

Update: Those concrete T-blocks are akmons, used for protecting the runway from Cook Strait. Official page: http://www.akmon.co.jp/product/akmon.html

What is the expected growth of Wellington International???

Latest progress on WLG's south runway end, 28 Jan 2007:
http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1010560.jpg

From the DomPost:

Ready for takeoff
The Dominion Post | Tuesday, 20 February 2007
ANDREW GORRIE/Dominion Post

NEW RESIDENT: Something fishy is afloat at Wellington Airport that has chief executive Simon Draper, right, and Marine Education Centre directors Victor Anderlini and Judy Hutt excited about its surrounding environment.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/images/280622.jpg

A newly installed aquarium, established as part of a partnership between the airport and marine centre, is set to become an instant attraction in the international departure lounge at Wellington Airport.

Holding 9000 litres of water, the aquarium offers a snapshot of what divers might see in the waters off Te Raekaihau Pt on Wellington's south coast - the proposed location for an Aquarium of New Zealand.

Wellington Airport, Infratil and the Wellington City Council, are supporters of the project. Throughout this month, the airport tank will progressively be filled with sea life from the south coast, including 10 species of fish (like this red moki), lobster, starfish and crabs - all caught by local fishermen.

Members of the Marine Education Centre, who are still celebrating the granting of resource consent for the $20.4 million aquarium project, have responsibility for caring for the fish till they are returned to the sea.

When built, the Aquarium of New Zealand would provide a permanent venue for marine and educational research, Dr Anderlini and Ms Hutt said.

Thats preety cool man.

http://www.edwardian-delights.com/vp8589.jpg

http://www.edwardian-delights.com/vp8589.jpg
Little would anyone know back then that the B747SP would operate out of Kai Tak South in the first half of the 1980s. :lol: There's been no other plane quite like it... with the possible exception of the soon-to-fly B787.

^^ The 787 is beautiful!

http://www.aircraft-info.net/aircraft/jet_aircraft/boeing/7e7/boeing-7E7.jpg

http://www.aircraft-info.net/aircraft/jet_aircraft/boeing/7e7/7E7Dreamliner_1.jpg

http://www.boeing.com/commercial/787/images/K63968_lg.jpg

http://www.flightglobal.com/assets/getAsset.aspx?ItemID=12703

Yea I do like the look of that plane^^ Is it very fuel efficient tho?

^^

More fuel efficient: 20 percent more fuel efficient than similarly sized airplanes

Produces fewer emissions: 20 percent fewer than similarly sized airplanes

Thanks for the info!

For an indicator, the B787 is slightly larger than the B767 it will eventually replace.

^^ Yea and more efficent, the 767 was kinda a nothing plane, Air NZ still has 6 of them they are about 10 years old!

The 787s will replace them.

Do you know where the 767s fly to deepred?

^^ Yea and more efficent, the 767 was kinda a nothing plane, Air NZ still has 6 of them they are about 10 years old!

The 787s will replace them.

Do you know where the 767s fly to deepred?
According to Air NZ's web site, they still have 6 B763ERs in the fleet. I gather they're mainly flying Oz & the Pacific (within the 9640km range with a full load). Anything further than that, they tend to use B772ERs.

How many international direct flights has this airport? and which amertican airlines fly directly?

How many international direct flights has this airport? and which amertican airlines fly directly?
At the moment, WLG (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WLG) only does international to Australia (SYD (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SYD), MEL (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melbourne_Airport) & BNE (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BNE)) & Fiji (NAN (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nadi_International_Airport)). The runway's too short for anywhere further, at least until the B787 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B787) comes out.

American carriers haven't flown to NZ for about 7 years - all current routes between NZ and USA are served by Air NZ, and it only flies out of Auckland.

American carriers haven't flown to NZ for about 7 years - all current routes between NZ and USA are served by Air NZ, and it only flies out of Auckland.
Qantas also offer a daily non-stop flight out of Auckland to Los Angeles in addition to Air NZ's flights :)

Must say from the pictures I have seen posted in this thread, Wellington Airport is looking good :)

Wild About Wellington - April 2007 (http://wellingtonairport.co.nz/extras/pdf/wild_about_wellington_april_2007.pdf)

Where did Gary Toomey go??

Qantas board of directors of course!!

Can anyone get his email address? I think a friendly reminder of what he did to our national flag carrier:bash:

Where did Gary Toomey go??

Qantas board of directors of course!!

Can anyone get his email address? I think a friendly reminder of what he did to our national flag carrier:bash:
Wasn't he partly responsible for the purchase of that flying Edsel known as Ansett?

Wellington's GA Airport. Paraparaumu

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/3179/1200248nn0.jpg

^^ It has been said by some that shifting the main airport from PPQ to WLG squandered the perfect opportunity for a long-haul airport. In fact, PPQ was judged unfeasible for international flights because of Kapiti Island in the west, the Tararuas to the east, and residential areas to the south.

^^
Wellington dosent need a long haul international airport anyway.
I don't think it would have meant that WLG would have experienced a boost in international traffic.

^^ I could think of 658 good reasons for one.

^^ I could think of 658 good reasons for one.

I'd love to hear some of them :)

I that NZ is to small to have three long haul international airports. In fact I think three international airports is enough.

AKL and CHC are starting to work well as exit and entry points for short, medium and long haul.

WGN is perfect for short and some medium haul.........Australia, Pacific Islands ??Singapore

What do think?

I'd love to hear some of them :)

The 658 reasons. (http://www.tourism.net.nz/new-zealand/about-new-zealand/driving.html) :)


I that NZ is to small to have three long haul international airports. In fact I think three international airports is enough.

AKL and CHC are starting to work well as exit and entry points for short, medium and long haul.

WGN is perfect for short and some medium haul.........Australia, Pacific Islands ??Singapore

What do think?
Maybe if AKL was situated in Ohakea it would have a much better catchment area.

Apparently I'm not alone on the matter:
http://www.esr.org.nz/news/news2000/nsep2000.html#ohakeaairport
WIAL/Wellington Chamber of Commerce case for the B787 (http://www.wellington-airport.co.nz/extras/pdf/pres_chamber_commerce_final.pdf)
WellUrban's view #1 (http://wellurban.blogspot.com/2006/08/beer-skittles.html#c115647415489119173)
WellUrban's view #2 (http://wellurban.blogspot.com/2005/08/urbanism-down-under-in-review-part-4.html)
Rod Drury's view (http://www.drury.net.nz/2006/07/28/wellington-to-asia-service/)
http://www.umami.co.nz/archives/2006/05/3_things_wellin.php

I realise even if WLG was capable of handling B744s, there wouldn't be enough seats filled. AirNZ dropped CHC-LAX for that very reason not too long ago. The single biggest problem is that with existing technology, trans-Pacific routes can only be served by large 300+ passenger planes (ie B744, B772ER). B767s are a more realistic size, but their range isn't long enough for trans-Pacific (at least from NZ).

The B787 goes some way towards 'long-and-thin', but I still think truly long-and-thin routes will only emerge if or when a long-haul 737 derivative gets developed. The forthcoming Boeing Y1 project has potential, but it's too early to tell.

^^
This reminds me of the Sydney-Melbourne scraps on ozscrapers where Melbourne forumers get all huffy because Sydney gets far more international traffic than them.

Why the hell hub at Ohakea? It would mean no benifit what so ever for passengers (apart from those who live in the Wellington / Manawatu region and even then only marginally).
Auckland is the logical hub for NZ, not Wellington.

I really enjoyed reading those, especially http://www.wellington-airport.co.nz/extras/pdf/pres_chamber_commerce_final.pdf

There is a great picture of WGN on a busy day on p 21 - great stuff. :banana:

I think the 787 will be good news for both Wellington and Christchurch. It was interesting to read about the freight that has to to flown to AKL to get shipped out alone - the frustration. This is exactly the problem that CHC was having before more and regular international flights increased from the Garden City. When ANZ axed the 777 (not a 747) the direct freight link to LA was a crushing blow to South Island exporters. When Rob and I went to express our dissatisfaction with ANZ in the head office in the SI - we were told the flights were passanger and freight viable - it's just they needed the aircraft for their new routes to China and Hong Kong and that building that highly profitable market was the bussiness - real hard ball.

^^
This reminds me of the Sydney-Melbourne scraps on ozscrapers where Melbourne forumers get all huffy because Sydney gets far more international traffic than them.

Why the hell hub at Ohakea? It would mean no benifit what so ever for passengers (apart from those who live in the Wellington / Manawatu region and even then only marginally).
Auckland is the logical hub for NZ, not Wellington.

I think we can do better than the Aussies and not scrap about it :lol:

I agree with you - AKL is the countries natural and national airlines hub. CHC has become the secondary hub and one of the two natural exit and entry points for the benifit of all NZ - however, I see a case for Wellington having some sort of link with our short and midhaul neighbours.

You work in the industry Kaas - I would imagine AKL is the only place most people would think of to fly in and out of??

^^ Except people who live Dunedin or Dannieverke. They don't really want to go all the way and transit through Auckland! :ohno:

Which makes sense.

^^ It dosent make a difference to travel time.
Nearly all destinations are to the north of NZ. Whether you transit in CHC, WLG or AKL dosent make any difference to the amount of time spent travelling. AKL being northerly is ideally situated for international - domestic transfers.
Anyway, passengers from DUD (Dunedin) can fly direct to MEL, SYD and BNE with Freedom Air.

^^ It dosent make a difference to travel time.
Nearly all destinations are to the north of NZ. Whether you transit in CHC, WLG or AKL dosent make any difference to the amount of time spent travelling. AKL being northerly is ideally situated for international - domestic transfers.
Anyway, passengers from DUD (Dunedin) can fly direct to MEL, SYD and BNE with Freedom Air.

Is AKL only that because the airlines and tourist industry make it so? What happens when you arrive in the AKL, do the NI, get to the SI via the boat from Wellington, do the SI end up in CHC - does it not make sense then to leave via the secondary hub, rather than fly all the way back to AKL - most people Hate doing it........?

^^
CHC is the secondary hub.
AKL has always been the main airport (long before tourism was even a factor).
It just depends with which airlines you fly as to whether you can ''open jaw'' with direct flights or whether you have a plane change at AKL.
NZ is just a small country. 2 long haul airports is about as much as you could expect.

The main barrier for Wellington getting a piece of the long haul pie is not so much that the aircraft cannot do it.... it's more so about the payload the aircraft can do it with.

As mentioned prior the 767 has flown out of Wellington on scheduled services before (to Australia) and have the range to fly to the likes of Singapore. In the case of the 763 (which NZ have) it can't be done with a payload financially viable to the Airlines due to the short runway length. Perhaps it could be fuelled up with enough juice to make it to Singapore but there would be significant weight restrictions meaning the payload would be reduced and less $$$ could be made.

While the 787 will help a little in this respect I personally doubt it will be the knight in shining armour we would all like for Wellington.

I think it would be fantastic if there were an aircraft capable of linking Wellington to say Hong Kong (with connections to Europe and the UK). Hopefully the 737 replacement might be able to achieve this :)

I don't think WLG will ever get medium/long haul flights. Too little demand.
Although WLG is a popular city with tourists one should not make the mistake of seeing WLG as the destination itself. WLG is just part of a larger NZ itinerary and is a nice stop for a day or so. International routes from WLG are catering to the local market, not the other way around.

A change of leadership will take place at Wellington Airport during the course of this year with the departure of Simon Draper and appointment of Steven Fitzgerald.

Simon Draper, who has been CEO of Wellington Airport since early 2004, will be moving to Australia as CEO of another Infratil company, Victoria Electricity. Another highly capable Infratil executive will be stepping in to ensure continuity. Steven Fitzgerald, CEO of Infratil Airports Europe, will take on a new role running Wellington Airport as well as Infratil’s European airports. He will be based in Wellington.

Steven has been CEO of Infratil Airports Europe since early 2005. That group has grown to include Glasgow Prestwick Airport, Kent International Airport and Lubeck Airport. Prior to joining Infratil Airports Europe, Steven held several senior positions at Sydney Airport. It is expected he will relocate to Wellington at the beginning of 2008.

Simon Draper is also staying within the Infratil group, joining the growing energy business in Australia. Prior to his role at Wellington Airport, Simon was a senior executive at Integral Energy, one of the largest electricity retailers in New South Wales. He will remain at Wellington Airport until the end July and will take up the position as CEO of Victoria Electricity at the beginning of September. Owing to his ongoing role in the Infratil group, he will continue to provide advice and assistance to the Wellington Airport management and Board.

Under Simon's leadership, Wellington Airport initiated a period of investment in safety, travel promotion and better facilities that are able to accommodate growth. This included new initiatives in tourism promotion and air services as well as development of the terminal and the runway safety extension. Wellington Airport has a strong outlook and Steven Fitzgerald will continue with the management of the airport's ongoing developments.

Wellington Mayor Kerry Prendergast says Simon has made a huge contribution, not just at the Airport, but to Wellington.

"Simon immersed himself in our city, engaged with the community and made a significant contribution to the Capital during his time here. He worked with all the region's leaders to progress many opportunities, including long haul services out of Wellington. He has been involved in the Wellington Regional Strategy process and was Vice President of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce. He has been an absolute asset to the Wellington region and we wish him well for the future."

This arrangement demonstrates the benefits of the Infratil group having a number of strong executives on whom it can draw. Infratil and Wellington City Council are committed to ensuring a continuation of high standards of service, facilities, investment and community engagement at Wellington Airport.

ENDS

Issued by: Wellington International Airport Limited

Enquiries to:
Louise Murray
Media Relations
Mobile 027 256 8352

Date: 22 May 2007

Hey - thats both CHC and WGN both with recent leadership changes!

Runway south end, 4 June 2007. Almost complete:
http://s79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/th_P1020555.jpg (http://s79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/?action=view&current=P1020555.jpg)

International Terminal, 4 June 2007:
http://s79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/th_P1020558.jpg (http://s79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/?action=view&current=P1020558.jpg)

20/6/2007 - Ongoing investment and modest price increases (http://wellingtonairport.co.nz/html/business/popup/price-increase.html)

The next phase in necessary airport upgrades

In finalising these prices, Wellington Airport has confirmed its intention to proceed with the third stage of its international terminal upgrade and expansion. This is estimated to cost $39 million and involves a major expansion of the already overcrowded and tired international departure lounges. It also involves the addition of one aerobridge gate (which will bring the total to eight, from the current six gates available to international aircraft).

Wellington Airport has committed to providing a credit back to customers if it does not proceed with the third stage of the terminal project. The Northern Runway End Safety Area will also proceed later this year, at a cost of $7.5 million.

Investment projects update

There is a full investment programme of projects already complete or underway. The list below outlines some of the larger items of interest (but is not a complete list).


Project | Detail | Cost ($m) | Status
Southern runway end safety area | Complying with international and CAA safety standards |23.5 | complete

Northern runway end safety area | Complying with international and CAA safety standards | 7.5 | commencing mid 2007

Stage 1 international terminal upgrade | New duty free stores | Improved passenger service areas that will reduce existing congestion at peak times and increase the capacity of the terminal to cope with growth | 12.7 | complete

Stage 2 international terminal upgrade | Additional aerobridge capable of accommodating wide-bodied aircraft. | Swing gates to accommodate domestic peaks | 12.7 | construction underway

Stage 3 International terminal upgrade | Additional aerobridge & major expansion & redevelopment of departure lounges. | 38.9 | In design with expected commencement in 2008.

Domestic aerobridges. | Replacement of two old domestic aerobridges. | 1.8 | Anticipated in 2008

Checked bag screening facilities | For enhanced security | 1.65 | complete

Regional aircraft | Parking areas upgrade to accommodate new regional aircraft types | 0.6 | complete

Airport car parking and shuttle facilities expansion and upgrade (non aero capex) | Providing better choice for customers | 10.2 | Near complete

Airport retail services improvements(non aero capex) | Better retail and customer service facilities. | 4.3 | Ongoing

Some new construction
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Airport/Construction.jpg

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Airport/Pano.jpg

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Airport/Pano1.jpg

New Marine Education Center model (at the airport)
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Marine%20Education%20Center/MarineEd_Model.jpg

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Marine%20Education%20Center/MarineEd_Model1.jpg

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Marine%20Education%20Center/Sign.jpg

Part1
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Marine%20Education%20Center/sign_part1.jpg

Part2
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Marine%20Education%20Center/sign_part2.jpg

Part3
http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t1/Adam_nz/Wellington%20-%20development/Marine%20Education%20Center/sign_part3.jpg

Who remembers and has flown NAC? Look at that Bristol Freighter - what a blast from the past!

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cf/NAC_F27_and_737_at_Wellington_Airport_1969.jpg/800px-NAC_F27_and_737_at_Wellington_Airport_1969.jpg

Great shot of the 747SP

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/54/QANTAS_747SP_touches_down_in_Wellington.jpg/800px-QANTAS_747SP_touches_down_in_Wellington.jpg

Found this interesting tit bit...........

'In spite of the short runway and frequent winds, there have been very few safety incidents at the airport. In 1991 a United Airlines Boeing 747 made an unscheduled landing after its original destination, Christchurch Airport, was closed by fog. [8] [15] Although the plane landed safely, all passengers and freight had to be offloaded before it was able to take off again. United 747 was diverted from Auckland to Christchurch, due fog at Auckland. Whilst passing Wellington, Christchurch fogged. Low on fuel they diverted into Wellington.,

Thats a blast from the past! Good find Davey!
I remember the NAC 737s ,F27s and Viscounts. That's all they used to use on the domestic services long before the Saabs, Dash8s etc.. The Viscounts went out of service in the late 70s I believe. The F27s were retired beginning of the 1990s. The F27 was my favourite and I always liked to sit under the wing so I could see the landing gear come out and touch down on the runway.

Check this out. An Air NZ DC8 landing at WLG in 1971. This was the international workhorse predating the DC10 and later the 747

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/6931/0807825sa2.jpg

Some nice shots there :) It really must have been something to witness a 747SP take off or landing in Wellington back in the day!

i can't remember nac, but i remember mum and dad talking about it

neat pictures of wellington, pity they still don't fly that stumpy jumbo there!

The 747SP was a marvel to watch at WLG, it got requisitioned for Qantas' LAX routes when Air NZ & Qantas started flying the cheaper-to-operate B762s out of WLG.

NAC billboard showing the mid70s livery.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/bc/NZNAC_poster.jpg

(NAC) Air NZ 737s in 1980 at WLG. Domestic aircraft had the same livery pattern as the international aircraft but in shades of orange (instead of teal) from the late 70s to early 80s.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/ff/Hybrid_Air_NZ_NZNAC.jpg/800px-Hybrid_Air_NZ_NZNAC.jpg

wow look how close those houses are and the telegraph pole in the front lol.

^^ Mildly reminiscent of the old Kai Tak Airport methinks?

I remember NAC well. I used to love going on the old F27s - to Nelson to see my mums parents and the 737s to AKL to stay with all the cuzzies for the school holidays. Ahh the memories.

Did anyone get to give out the lollies when they were young? Air NZ still lets kids do that on international and domestic flights - I was impressed!

^^
Hmmm. Not sure. I might have delt out the lollies one time. I bet you did Davey.

^^
Hmmm. Not sure. I might have delt out the lollies one time. I bet you did Davey.

Davey did:lol: :okay: But I was to little to fit into the nice ladies uniforms :| :lol:

Im not trying to stir anti-Wellington comments, as I personally think Welly is the best city in NZ, but hope that AirNZ continue expanding AKL and CHC instead of the national capital.

The Brazilian air crash has some scary similarities with Wellington airport. Here is a runway comparison of Sao Paulo's Congonhas Airport (CGH) and Wellington International Airport (WLG):

CGH runway lengths: 1× 1940m × 45m & 1× 1435m × 45m
WLG runway length: 1× 1936m × 45m

WLG handles 4.5 million PAX, while CGH handled 17.5 million PAX in 2005. CGH is Sao Paulo's main domestic airport as SP is also served by international airlines at Guarulhos Internatioinal Airport (GRU) 35km NE of the city centre. Both WLG and CGH are 8km from the city centre surrounded by urban areas. WLG actually is safer with water at both RESA, while CGH has high density populations at both RESA.

Perhaps AirNZ acknowledges the safety of WLG and why no large aircraft is proposed to serve Wellington. I always believe that CHC and AKL need to be the only 2 long-haul international routes for NZ?

Im not trying to stir anti-Wellington comments, as I personally think Welly is the best city in NZ, but hope that AirNZ continue expanding AKL and CHC instead of the national capital.

The Brazilian air crash has some scary similarities with Wellington airport. Here is a runway comparison of Sao Paulo's Congonhas Airport (CGH) and Wellington International Airport (WLG):

CGH runway lengths: 1× 1940m × 45m & 1× 1435m × 45m
WLG runway length: 1× 1936m × 45m

WLG handles 4.5 million PAX, while CGH handled 17.5 million PAX in 2005. CGH is Sao Paulo's main domestic airport as SP is also served by international airlines at Guarulhos Internatioinal Airport (GRU) 35km NE of the city centre. Both WLG and CGH are 8km from the city centre surrounded by urban areas. WLG actually is safer with water at both RESA, while CGH has high density populations at both RESA.

Perhaps AirNZ acknowledges the safety of WLG and why no large aircraft is proposed to serve Wellington. I always believe that CHC and AKL need to be the only 2 long-haul international routes for NZ?
CGH's runway wasn't even grooved, so braking performance would have been severely compromised. WLG's runway is grooved for wet landings, otherwise the Civil Aviation Authority wouldn't allow B737s and A320s to use it. Qantas acknowledged WLG's safety standards with the 747SP. :)

Landing at WLG isn't a problem with widebodies, but rather it's the takeoff allowance that's the issue. B762s and B763s flew regularly from WLG with full passenger loads up till recently, replaced by the B737 & A320 only because passengers wanted more frequent flights, and because the narrowbodies were cheaper to run.

In fact, Air NZ's decision not to fly the B787 out of WLG is related not to safety reasons, but financial ones. Being a small airline by world standards, it's understandable for them to hub its long-hauls out of AKL.

I think the fact that CGH is at altitude doesn't help its cause either. Wellington doesn't have that issue.

Wellington Airport defends ongoing investment programme and modest price increases

Wellington International Airport Limited (WIAL) will strongly defend judicial review proceedings brought by Air New Zealand regarding the setting of WIAL’s new landing charges. These charges were effective from 1 July 2007.

The increase in aeronautical revenue averaged 2.5% per annum reflecting no change to the international passenger charge and a 2.85%per annum increase in airline charges (equivalent to 30c per passenger on jets and less on regional aircraft).

The Airport’s charges are reset every five years with this change being the first since 2002. The increase in charges is directly related to the cost associated with the airport’s $85 million investment in enhanced runway safety and the work that is underway to upgrade the international terminal and aircraft facilities to relieve existing congestion and to cope with forecasted passenger growth.

WIAL consulted comprehensively and constructively with the airlines for 12 months before setting the new charges.

“Wellington Airport is acutely aware of its statutory obligations in setting its landing fees and it is our view that we have undertaken the process thoroughly and will strongly defend the claims made by Air New Zealand”, said Mike Basher, Acting CEO.

“The regulation of Airports in New Zealand has a track record of producing good investment in facilities and prices which are still low on a comparative international basis. Anyone who has travelled through airports such as Heathrow would also be acutely aware of the consequence of under-investing in facilities. The existing regime and the outcome of this consultation has, we believe, produced a good outcome.”

Date: 14/08/2007

The safety extensions for WLG's north end of the runway are beginning any moment now:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P8190088-HDTV.jpg

How exactly are they going to fit an extra 45m to that? I don't see how it's possible. There isn't any room left.

I think they should just bit the bullet and build ala Hong Kong's Chek Lap Kok!

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/8d/Vhhh.jpg

Plenty of harbour for reclaiming!

How exactly are they going to fit an extra 45m to that? I don't see how it's possible. There isn't any room left.

Didn't you follow the work done at the southern end?
Same thing. The road will run under the extension.

The runoff is already 60m long, and the ICAO requires 90m, which is still within the airport zone. Any longer and Cobham Dr would have to be tunnelled over, if only to eliminate the trolley bus wire hazard.

It can't be too much longer because planes already fly pretty close to Newlands Ridge.

So the road wont be tunnelled? Must have got things mixed up.
Anyway, as far as I know the plan dosent involve moving the threshhold back so no matter what the approach heights won't alter

an airport like chep lap kok would be so cool for wellington :~D, surely the planners of the current airport saw that this was gonna happen eventually. Oh well :~

My old man is an air traffic controller for Wellington back in NZ and he describes the airport an 'an absolute nightmare'. They really never had a choice in Wellington as it is the only parcel of flat land available. I think if the economic conditions are right in the future it could be extended out to the north into the harbour; as the south would obviously take a hammering weather wise.

One of those if New Zealand became the Hong Kong of the south pacific type projects methinks......

Wellington really does need a good airport with long-haul international connections to give itself more credibility as an international city - so fingers crossed development continues :banana:

My old man is an air traffic controller for Wellington back in NZ and he describes the airport an 'an absolute nightmare'. They really never had a choice in Wellington as it is the only parcel of flat land available. I think if the economic conditions are right in the future it could be extended out to the north into the harbour; as the south would obviously take a hammering weather wise.

One of those if New Zealand became the Hong Kong of the south pacific type projects methinks......

Wellington really does need a good airport with long-haul international connections to give itself more credibility as an international city - so fingers crossed development continues :banana:
A northern extension at Rongotai could only serve as a safety runoff/starter strip because of Newlands Ridge (ICAO opinion, not mine). Landings will still have to be done on the current airstrip markings, but at the end of the day it's the takeoff that requires the extra length rather than the landing.

PPQ had plenty of land space, but too much adverse terrain surrounding it. Plus, Rongotai was a stone's throw from the CBD. There are flat spaces available, but they're way out in the Wairarapa or Otaki.

I think they should just bit the bullet and build ala Hong Kong's Chek Lap Kok!

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/8d/Vhhh.jpg

Plenty of harbour for reclaiming!
Got $30 billion up your sleeve do ya?

Got $30 billion up your sleeve do ya?

Mmhm, I don't think it's exactly feasable, however, it's a nice pie in the sky dream to have!

Also: don't forget the added costs of building in New Zealand compared to Hong Kong the resource consents etc are surely more arduous and time consuming than Hong Kong. Budget blow outs would result it being double the price.

Wow there goes half our GDP to build an airport :lol:

Big oil strike in the Southern Basin would pay for it! :bash:

^^ Imagine that. Invercargill the new Dubai :lol:

The safety extensions for WLG's north end of the runway are beginning any moment now:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P8190088-HDTV.jpg

i just can't get over how high that runway is compaired to the houses.......f.....k

A northern extension at Rongotai could only serve as a safety runoff/starter strip because of Newlands Ridge (ICAO opinion, not mine). Landings will still have to be done on the current airstrip markings, but at the end of the day it's the takeoff that requires the extra length rather than the landing.

PPQ had plenty of land space, but too much adverse terrain surrounding it. Plus, Rongotai was a stone's throw from the CBD. There are flat spaces available, but they're way out in the Wairarapa or Otaki.

That's an interesting point. ie an northern extension would not extend the threshold, but it would for planes arriving from the south, and it would give more length for planes to take off, both north and south. And it's taking that requires the length, not the landing. I'm sure, if they added a bit north and a bit south they would have a wide-body capable runway, even if 747s and the like could only land from the south.

Competition a plus for Wellington

Wellington City Council, Wellington International Airport, and Positively Wellington Tourism have welcomed Pacific Blue to Wellington.

Mike Basher, Acting CEO of Wellington Airport, says consumers could look forward to benefits which will flow from increased domestic competition.

“Virgin Blue runs a highly successful airline in its domestic Australian operations which offers very competitive fares. The entry of Virgin’s New Zealand arm, Pacific Blue, means New Zealanders will now have access to a market where there is genuine but profitable domestic competition.”

Wellington Mayor, Kerry Prendergast, says the introduction of Pacific Blue services would be a win for both Wellington and Wellingtonians.

“Their entry to the domestic market will make Wellington an even more desirable tourist destination for the many New Zealanders who are rediscovering our fantastic city. It will also mean cheaper travel for Wellingtonians. It’s a win:win.”

Positively Wellington Tourism CEO, Tim Cossar, says the arrival of Pacific Blue will have an impact on the domestic visitor market. “We know that airline competition in the past has tended to stimulate the market. It’s highly likely we will see increased domestic travel to Wellington, as a result of this announcement.”

Pacific Blue will begin operations from Wellington Airport on 15 November commencing with 5 daily flights to Auckland and 3 to Christchurch.

Issued by:

Wellington City Council
Wellington International Airport Limited
Positively Wellington Tourism


Date: 23/08/2007

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floating_airport

Air NZ eyeing Paraparaumu airport
The Dominion Post | Saturday, 15 September 2007

Air New Zealand says it is evaluating its domestic services using Paraparaumu airport, in a move which appears to be aimed at increasing pressure on Wellington International Airport.

The airline is in a legal fight with Wellington and Auckland international airports over increased landing fees.

continues... (http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominionpost/4202431a23918.html)

I believe Dunedins airport should undergo revamp aswell

I believe Dunedins airport should undergo revamp aswell

It is.....^^

Wellington is only starting to attract overseas visitors, probably largely due to not having a quality international airport, like Christchurch. It is getting some coverage in the press and in some advertising over here in Oz. How ironic Christchurch and Wellington both have similar populations, albeit Wellington has about 12,000 more people and yet Christchurch has one of the top 3 airports in the 5-15 million passenger category in the world, soon no. 1 on current performance, while Wellington's airport is really just finding it feet. Wellington has the great skyline and cbd, Christchurch are moving towards it.:banana:

Quote:
Originally Posted by Theville01
I believe Dunedins airport should undergo revamp aswell

It is.....^^

Correction - It has

But seriously....Theville01 - do you have a clue?

Wellington is only starting to attract overseas visitors, probably largely due to not having a quality international airport, like Christchurch. It is getting some coverage in the press and in some advertising over here in Oz. How ironic Christchurch and Wellington both have similar populations, albeit Wellington has about 12,000 more people and yet Christchurch has one of the top 3 airports in the 5-15 million passenger category in the world, soon no. 1 on current performance, while Wellington's airport is really just finding it feet. Wellington has the great skyline and cbd, Christchurch are moving towards it.:banana:

Wellington attracts plenty of overseas vistors travelling through NZ. From a tourism point of view Wellington would'nt be a very illogical as a choice of arrvial/departure point. In this case WLG's central location works as a disadvantage as far as this is concerned. Most visitors travelling through NZ will begin and end in AKL & CHC. I don't think Wellington as a city needs to worry about being skipped. Just that the average traveller will arrive and/or depart on the Cook Strait ferry or via SH1 or SH2.

THe runway in Wellington Airport is only 2026 metres long, which is very short by international airport standards. The runway may need to be extended somehow.

Wellington attracts plenty of overseas vistors travelling through NZ. From a tourism point of view Wellington would'nt be a very illogical as a choice of arrvial/departure point. In this case WLG's central location works as a disadvantage as far as this is concerned. Most visitors travelling through NZ will begin and end in AKL & CHC. I don't think Wellington as a city needs to worry about being skipped. Just that the average traveller will arrive and/or depart on the Cook Strait ferry or via SH1 or SH2.

I totally agree with you mate.

Metroman. Auckland and Christchurch Airports are each one of the main airports in New Zealand, they are the 'front door' to the main islands. One for the North Island and the other for the South Island. And Christchurch is not the only destination tourists intend to visit. There is a heap lot of main attractions in the South Island as a 'whole' not just Christchurch itself. I assume that it outnumbers what the North Island offers.

It would be great to see Wellington become more of an international city which usually happens when you have a good international airport. I think Wellington definetly warrants one. I agree on its own it is a complete destination as opposed to Christchurch which although it is working towards being like Wellington, is a gateway to the South Island and the rest of New Zealand.:banana: :)

It would be great to see Wellington become more of an international city which usually happens when you have a good international airport. I think Wellington definetly warrants one. I agree on its own it is a complete destination as opposed to Christchurch which although it is working towards being like Wellington, is a gateway to the South Island and the rest of New Zealand.:banana: :)
An extra few hundred metres of airstrip would definitely help.

It would be great to see Wellington become more of an international city which usually happens when you have a good international airport. I think Wellington definetly warrants one. I agree on its own it is a complete destination as opposed to Christchurch which although it is working towards being like Wellington, is a gateway to the South Island and the rest of New Zealand.:banana: :)

It's a complete destination if youre a New Zealander or an Australian wanting to take a long weekend break in a New Zealand city in which case the runway is plenty long enough (ie: 737,767, later 787 Trans Tasman and domestic services). A visitor from Europe, North America or Asia isn't going to fly all the way to NZ to spend 3 or 4 weeks in Wellington.
As a gateway for a complete NZ holiday Wellington's location in the centre dosen't make it a logical choice as most people travelling through NZ will want to start in the North and depart from the south (or vice versa).

New International WLG Routes Next Please! (http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK0710/S00124.htm)
Wednesday, 10 October 2007, 4:06 pm
Press Release: Wellington Chamber Of Commerce

Praise for Increased Domestic Flights. New International Routes Next Please

The reintroduction of Qantas' Wellington to Christchurch route and other investments made by the airline will to
Zealand economies, according to the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce.

"The move will enhance competition, increase the number of flights, improve services and lower fares," said Chamber CEO, Charles Finny.

"Reinstatement of Christchurch - Wellington will increase the numbers of visitors to Wellington, providing a boost to the regional economy, and also increase Wellington businesses and other travellers' ability to visit the South Island.

Competition on air routes is the best way to deliver cost effective customer services and is also ultimately in the best interests of the airlines. Suppliers of services to the airlines will also benefit from the increased flights.

"While this is positive, there are still a lot more opportunities for the aviation industry in Wellington.

"At a recent Chamber lunch where Qantas was a guest speaker, we made the case for more sponsorship of regular trans-Tasman travellers, the Wellington Phoenix; restoration the Christchurch Wellington air routes; and the introduction of long haul flights from Wellington to Asia or the Americas. We welcome the delivery of the first two of these and look forward to the third leg of the trifector.

"Non-stop flights to Asia would provide significant benefits to both the region and the airline proving them. New technology Boeing 787 aircraft due to come on service in 2008 mean it is now possible for planes to fly profitably from Wellington's short runway to Asia. Qantas has a large number of these aircraft on order.

"Improved air links, domestic and international, are vital to the prosperity of the Wellington region and enhanced direct air links to Asia and the Americas are key. Non-stop services between Wellington and such destinations would feed into wider international networks and would flow into greater tourism and trade, increased cross border business and investment, as well as more convenience for travellers.

"They would also provide a significant opportunity for airlines. We believe that a direct link between Wellington and Asia or the Americas would be very lucrative for any airline starting these services. The city's strong corporate and Government market combined with a high-income, internationally oriented population would make it a profitable market.

"We look forward to welcoming the first airline which recognises this", Mr Finny concluded.

ENDS

Wellington outshines Europe for Infratil
NZ HERALD - 2:15PM Monday October 15, 2007

International passenger numbers at Wellington airport are up 3.8 per cent in September compared to a year ago, despite a fall in capacity, the airport's majority owner Infratil said today. International passenger numbers grew 6.2 per cent for the year to date. Seats fell 3.9 per cent for the first six months of the year. The airport said that growth remained strong but was curbed by capacity limitations. The airport got a boost from Pacific Blue's announcement last month that it will start domestic flights and Qantas' decision to resume the Wellington-Christchurch service soon. However, September passenger numbers were down at all Infratil's airports in Europe - Glasgow Prestwick, Kent and Lubeck in Germany.

It would be great to see Wellington become more of an international city which usually happens when you have a good international airport. I think Wellington definetly warrants one. I agree on its own it is a complete destination as opposed to Christchurch which although it is working towards being like Wellington, is a gateway to the South Island and the rest of New Zealand.:banana: :)

Why are you so down on Christchurch as a travel destination in itself (in comparison to Wellington)? I've seen this opinion in more than one of your posts. Is it from having lived there and not finding any novelty in the place? Or just that you have a bias towards density and tall buildings?

Plenty of people think Christchurch more than measures up:
http://www.travelandleisure.com/worldsbest/2007/results.cfm?cat=citiesaunzsp

Myself I'd rather take a holiday in Wellington also - just because I'm a young male really (it's even more exciting than Auckland to me because of the density), but I can't deny Christchurch has an equal number of drawcards to one with different values (and it's also where I'll be moving to by choice).

Christchurch is moving from being a provincial city towards being a metropolis. I really am passionate about Christchurch as it is my hometown, but feel that Wellington is more of a complete destination in its own right. For international travellers it may only be a 3-4 day destination, but that's pretty good. Christchurch is more of a gateway destination for the rest of the country and the South Island. Don't get me wrong Christchurch nightlife is better than most of Queensland and probably holds it own with many bigger cities, while its restaurants and cafes are excellent. It is just that its cbd is a bit of a let down and really doesn't showcase the place the way it could. This is changing for the better. Wellington in my view is a great example of a small metropitan city which really offers everything. It's like a small big city.:)

Christchurch is moving from being a provincial city towards being a metropolis. I really am passionate about Christchurch as it is my hometown, but feel that Wellington is more of a complete destination in its own right. For international travellers it may only be a 3-4 day destination, but that's pretty good. Christchurch is more of a gateway destination for the rest of the country and the South Island. Don't get me wrong Christchurch nightlife is better than most of Queensland and probably holds it own with many bigger cities, while its restaurants and cafes are excellent. It is just that its cbd is a bit of a let down and really doesn't showcase the place the way it could. This is changing for the better. Wellington in my view is a great example of a small metropitan city which really offers everything. It's like a small big city.:)
On one front, I consider Christchurch's CBD to be something to emulate, touristwise: they've made doing nothing other than soaking up the atmosphere of their CBD and photographing it something for the To-Do list of tourists. People are shunted around the CBD via several means (heritage walks, the tram, punting on the Avon etc.) doing essentially nothing, and are entertained in doing so. It's not every city that can boast that. If you compare Visitor's Guides for NZ three major cities, in no way does it fall short.

True i can see your point. Won't it be great when it is rejuvenated, the tram extended, the city mall upgraded and the lanes project etc.:cheers:

Random observation on Wellington Airport: I confused the hat graphic above the male toilet symbol to be a badly-drawn graffiti penis-head. It had to be pointed out to me that it was a hat.

Random observation on Wellington Airport: I confused the hat graphic above the male toilet symbol to be a badly-drawn graffiti penis-head. It had to be pointed out to me that it was a hat.

NZ Listener column by Jon Bridges: "Get The Picture?" (http://listener.co.nz/issue/3485/columnists/8196/get_the_picture.html)

NZ Listener column by Jon Bridges: "Get The Picture?" (http://listener.co.nz/issue/3485/columnists/8196/get_the_picture.html)

The sketchy pictograms are no doubt something to do with Wellington Airport’s theme of “Wild at Heart” (and it is hard to imagine a more ill-advised slogan for an airport, except possibly “Asleep at the Controls”).

:rofl:



The image in case anyone hasn't seen them:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/92/231677028_1cd82bf493.jpg

OK, maybe I see penises where there clearly are no penises. I just thought the vandal was a terrible drawer and had over-accentuated the piss-slit.

It could be the wind. The woman's hair blowing in the breeze and the man's hat dislodging itself from his head..hehe. Or a penis. lol

It could be the wind. The woman's hair blowing in the breeze and the man's hat dislodging itself from his head..hehe. Or a penis. lol

Ah ha. Right on. The wild Wellington wind.:)

Work has finally started on WLG's north end. The markings for the new tarmac area are clearly visible.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/PC010335.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/PC010338.jpg

Great pictures.

Welly is looking sunny and very dry at the moment!

From Radio NZ News (http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/latest/200712131136/domestic_passenger_numbers_jump_at_wellington_airport):

Domestic passenger numbers jump at Wellington airport
Posted at 11:37am on 13 Dec 2007

Domestic passenger volumes at Wellington International Airport increased by 13% in November after Pacific Blue's debut.

Because the new domestic carrier only started halfway through the month, the airport company says volumes will normally be double this and there is no evidence of any cannibalisation of the existing market yet.

International volumes were more disappointing following a six percent drop in seat capacity compared to the same month last year, but the airport says average loading of 80% over the month shows demand is there.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P1120287.jpg

City's new gateway to the world
Expansion for Wgtn's international airport terminal

ROELAND van den BERGH - The Dominion Post | Tuesday, 19 February 2008

Wellington airport today unveils the final design of what it describes as a landmark building for the new $53 million international terminal.

The airport announced in 2005 that it would significantly expand and upgrade the overcrowded and tired terminal.

The first two phases of the development have been completed, including improved passenger service areas and new duty-free stores.

An airbridge capable of handling the new Boeing 787 was also added, which the airport hopes will attract a direct service to Asia.

The design for the final phase is a tightly held secret, but is expected to radically change the look of the terminal at a cost of $39 million.

It would also have the greatest impact on passengers, expanding the cramped departure lounges and adding an airbridge to boost capacity.

Once the building is completed, the airport will be able to handle 1000 international passengers an hour, twice its original capacity.

VERY GOOD!! :D

:banana::banana:Go WIA.

I really look forward to seeing the design. Wellington International really needs it :)

Im excited by this announcement. And we SSSSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO need to push for more International flights. The likes of Nadi and Melbourne are not international. I would love to see long hauls out of Wellington. Why do we have to change planes in Auckland?

Im excited by this announcement. And we SSSSSOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO need to push for more International flights. The likes of Nadi and Melbourne are not international. I would love to see long hauls out of Wellington. Why do we have to change planes in Auckland?
The runway's too short for existing long-haul aircraft technology, but the B787 and Boeing Y1 could potentially change that. And AirNZ says there's not enough economy of scale for LH flights outside Auckland, but I'm suspicious of that claim.

The runway's too short for existing long-haul aircraft technology, but the B787 and Boeing Y1 could potentially change that. And AirNZ says there's not enough economy of scale for LH flights outside Auckland, but I'm suspicious of that claim.

Agreed agreed agreed on your comments. For instance Air NZ has two flights a day to London and two flights daily to Los Angeles both out of Auckland. And maybe two to Hong Kong as well? Not all people on those flights are from Auckland, Im sure they get a few from the lower half of the North and all the South Island of course. They tried it out of Christchurch but said the loads weren't great which I dont believe, freight was through the roof apparently on those flights.

So whats it going to hurt to maybe schedule one or two of those flights a week out of Wellington. Maybe we need to get an extra 100thousand people in our immediate catchment area to justify it?

Agreed agreed agreed on your comments. For instance Air NZ has two flights a day to London and two flights daily to Los Angeles both out of Auckland. And maybe two to Hong Kong as well? Not all people on those flights are from Auckland, Im sure they get a few from the lower half of the North and all the South Island of course. They tried it out of Christchurch but said the loads weren't great which I dont believe, freight was through the roof apparently on those flights.

So whats it going to hurt to maybe schedule one or two of those flights a week out of Wellington. Maybe we need to get an extra 100thousand people in our immediate catchment area to justify it?

Here's a bit of a backgrounder in the SSC archives, starting from post #47:

SSC Archives - Wellington International Airport (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=398812&page=3)

http://www.wellington-airport.co.nz/images/content/TheRock_Exterior_Large.jpg

http://www.wellington-airport.co.nz/images/content/TheRock_Interior_Large.jpg

"Wellington International Airport today revealed the design of its international passenger terminal, which will complete the terminal’s expansion and upgrade. The building encapsulates Wellington’s individuality and creativity and will undoubtedly create a unique and memorable visitor experience.

The bold and dramatic design, affectionately tagged “The Rock”, is in contrast to the bland halls that typify most international airports. The airport’s South Coast location is represented by the inside aesthetics and outside shell of the building. Coloured fragments of glass in the roof fissure let in a warm, natural light by day and backlighting at night creates a glow which will be seen from the air.

“Our radical departure from traditional airport design worldwide is entirely deliberate. What is set to become New Zealand’s newest iconic building, The Rock combines functionality and capacity with what will be a memorable visitor experience. It’s edgy and in keeping with our Wild at Heart attitude, reflecting Wellington’s status as a vibrant and daring cultural city. With our commitment to regional tourism and further developing international services, we are creating the airport to take Wellington into the next decade," said Steven Fitzgerald, Wellington Airport CEO."

http://www.wellington-airport.co.nz/images/content/TheRock_Exterior_Large.jpg

http://www.wellington-airport.co.nz/images/content/TheRock_Interior_Large.jpg

"Wellington International Airport today revealed the design of its international passenger terminal, which will complete the terminal’s expansion and upgrade. The building encapsulates Wellington’s individuality and creativity and will undoubtedly create a unique and memorable visitor experience.

The bold and dramatic design, affectionately tagged “The Rock”, is in contrast to the bland halls that typify most international airports. The airport’s South Coast location is represented by the inside aesthetics and outside shell of the building. Coloured fragments of glass in the roof fissure let in a warm, natural light by day and backlighting at night creates a glow which will be seen from the air.

“Our radical departure from traditional airport design worldwide is entirely deliberate. What is set to become New Zealand’s newest iconic building, The Rock combines functionality and capacity with what will be a memorable visitor experience. It’s edgy and in keeping with our Wild at Heart attitude, reflecting Wellington’s status as a vibrant and daring cultural city. With our commitment to regional tourism and further developing international services, we are creating the airport to take Wellington into the next decade," said Steven Fitzgerald, Wellington Airport CEO."
Man... that's a major departure from the original proposal (http://www.wellingtonairport.co.nz/images/content/wialext.gif).

While I applaud the effort to "think outside the box", that just looks weird.

It doesn't look modern, it doesn't look cutting edge, it just looks like it's trying too hard.

And tell me that won't date really quickly

Certainly unique though.....so points for that.

^^ It is a bit of a surprise. Although I think a big part of how well a building dates is the overall quality of the materials involved, which is hard to know until it's built. In fact, I'm not sure from these renders what the material actually is. The exterior render makes it look like wood but the interior one looks more like metal plating/copper or something. I think it'll be very difficult to judge until we can see it in reality, frankly.

Although the whole thing reminds of Halloween pumpkins more than rocks...

It is a VERY radical departure and I too get the Halloween pumpkin impression. If they wanted to look neat and modern, cutting-edge, creative..........without looking like two burgers from a happy meal, perhaps they should take a design leaf out of Le Centre Culturel Tjibaou. It looks unique and original without looking hideously tacky.

http://www.adck.nc/en

It is a VERY radical departure and I too get the Halloween pumpkin impression. If they wanted to look neat and modern, cutting-edge, creative..........without looking like two burgers from a happy meal, perhaps they should take a design leaf out of Le Centre Culturel Tjibaou. It looks unique and original without looking hideously tacky.

http://www.adck.nc/en


Tacky is the best way to describe it, and KLK is correct, it will date very quickly.

I thought it was a joke for the first 10 minutes. It looks like something outta the town of Bedrock. That said, I love it. Sure, it's a hideous eyesore - that's why I love it. I wouldn't tolerate something like that in Chch, but Wellington better suits crazy crap like this.

I just checked out the virtual fly-thu on Stuff and it reminds of a nightclub here in KL - "Rum Jungle" - ha ha.

So assuming they have the stage and rock band, the shark tank above the bar, and waitresses in hot pants and boots, I'm all for it.

However, on the basis they won't, I stand by my earlier comments....

FUCKING FANTASTIC !! Just what NZ needs .... Wellington makes me so proud :) This is the kind of ballsy stuff that I want to see :cheers:

This one gets an approval rating of 10/10 from me.

I thought it was a joke for the first 10 minutes. It looks like something outta the town of Bedrock. That said, I love it. Sure, it's a hideous eyesore - that's why I love it. I wouldn't tolerate something like that in Chch, but Wellington better suits crazy crap like this.

I find myself in agreement to your comments. I like this. In some ways it seems a bit 'tryhard' maybe the design is best suited to an aquarium or restaurants on the waterfront. Not every city in NZ woiuld be able to pull a design like this off, good to see Wellington has the balls. That said buildings that are out there either have staunch lovers or very vocal detractors. I am certain I will fall into the former catergory. I look forward to seeing the final product with my own eyes.

I also like how WIAL used an SQ craft in their renders. Way to go about dropping a hint and giving your hoped for company some free pblicity. Like saying well Air NZ is giving us the hump, should we court Singapore instead?

Well done Wellington.

Perhaps I am too quick to analyse things like this nimbyly. :wallbash: I shall endeavour to open my mind more and see if this very original design is to be a stunner.

Sorry for the negativity, guys.

We cant and shouldnt blindly accept every new proposal as being good in the name of progress. Im not surprised that there are objectors to this project on our forum. At least everyone here puts in intelligent well thought out comments. At least we can all agree we know this will not be to everyones approval.
I suspect however MA, that once spotted in real life this might grab a few more people.

Its amazing cos there isnt a whole section in the NZ Herald about "Sending in your views" on the new designs for the Wellington Arpt Int. Terminal looking like a Pumpkin!

Although there is a heap of ''views'' on Stuff.co.nz

This was my "view" ....

Why oh why am I not surprised that there is such a negative response to this proposal. It is time that New Zealand wakes up and accepts the fact that 1970 is long gone. It is also no wonder that this Country (and the cities) are so, well, average and quite frankly robbed of any decent contemporary architecture. I can confidently say that should the proposal have included some form of a weather-beaten bach, the majority of New Zealanders would have cried out with joy and praised the architects concerned. I have been praying long and hard that New Zealand would do something as ballsy as this – well done and I truly hope that this proposal doesn’t get binned because of some conservative, unimaginative old crows. The embarrassment of Eden Park is enough. Well done Wellington, you make me proud.

I dont wanna go there and read them. I'll save hearing peoples views on this kind of thing from this very website. I dont wanna know what those who have no interest in architecture, development etc say about something like this. Like asking Friday nights KFC customers whether they approve of foie gras. Not a great analogy and apols to KFC eaters out there, but you get what Im trying to say.

You know, I will admit that the more I look at it, the more....well, I wouldn't say like it, but I get a little more positive about it. Let's put it that way.

I do like the inside and think this would be a great impression for arriving or departing visitors.

In terms of the exterior, well, I'm no conservative by any stretch and like the idea of modern, contemporary architecture gracing our rather soulless cities. That doesn't mean I should agree with every design just for the sake of it. But fair play to the Airport for thinking a little differently.

I am a bit of a colour man. And I always wonder what such designs would look like using different colours and materials, and I wonder about this one - if it wasn't that Ayers Rock red, would it be more readily accepted? I am thinking it just might......

You know, I will admit that the more I look at it, the more....well, I wouldn't say like it, but I get a little more positive about it. Let's put it that way.

I do like the inside and think this would be a great impression for arriving or departing visitors.

In terms of the exterior, well, I'm no conservative by any stretch and like the idea of modern, contemporary architecture gracing our rather soulless cities. That doesn't mean I should agree with every design just for the sake of it. But fair play to the Airport for thinking a little differently.

I am a bit of a colour man. And I always wonder what such designs would look like using different colours and materials, and I wonder about this one - if it wasn't that Ayers Rock red, would it be more readily accepted? I am thinking it just might......

I am also a colour man (I LOVE IT) ... You must love the kind of stuff that they are building in Melbourne which is full of colour. I know that I do :)

I agree with you, one ring of colour would add another dimension to the design ;)

I am also a colour man (I LOVE IT) ... You must love the kind of stuff that they are building in Melbourne which is full of colour. I know that I do :)

I agree with you, one ring of colour would add another dimension to the design ;)

Yeah I do. On certain projects I wonder if they have got it a bit wrong, but in general I like it, and it certainly livens the place up and adds to the city.

Maybe I can be tacky at times, but a transparent shell on this, with the ability for it to be lit up and change colours (like the Allianz Arena) would have done me:)

This might not be the thread for it but I wanna add a little bit more.

I get frustrated by usually 'older' Kiwis who's only experience of the world other than NZ is Australia. Im talking about the people who think the Gold Coast is exciting with all those amazing buildings or Sydneys Opera House is outta this world or enjoy the rail link from BNE Intl to the city centre. These people say how great these things are and that they set Australia apart from NZ but they are the very same people who shoot back any proposal to have the same type of thing here!

Grrrr.

^^Uggggggly :puke: :puke:

I'm so glad that I'll never have to use the MoFo'

Well... I'm sorry but I don't like it. I'm normally a fan of "out there" architecture and am a huge fan of things like Federation Square in Melbourne, but these buildings look like a pair of rotting pumpkins.

It's good that boundaries are being pushed and I think simply for the purpose of pushing them it should be built, but for me, I don't like it. Sorry! :(

They better hope the Funky Pumpkin doesn't sue for theft of intellectual property:

http://www.funkyp.co.nz/misc/kingkong_1.swf

The Dominion, Tuesday February 19 th. There is a good video clip of the new international terminal.:cheers:

I agree with the comments here, I think its ballsy, original, unique, dramatic....but ultimately misguided. If this is our best attempt at contemporary architecture, then I'm disappointed.

http://eyeofthefish.org/rock-2-wellington/

The first thing that jumped out at me was, as Milan said, the Singapore Airlines 777 :lol:

I take onboard all the comments made by everyone. I love the inside, the outside - I don't like. It just reminds me of some crazy pumpkins. I hope I'm proved wrong and WIA has a "iconic" terminal that puts all others to shame. Perhaps with time - we all might get to like it or really hate it - but hey, look at the discussion it has stimulated about Wellington Airport.:banana:

Airport or pumpkin patch?
TOM FITZSIMONS - The Dominion Post (http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominionpost/4407367a23918.html) | Wednesday, 20 February 2008

Architecture and design experts say "The Rock" - Wellington airport's new $39 million international terminal proposal - should be sunk.

They have lambasted the building, designed by Studio Pacific Architecture and Warren and Mahoney, as attention-seeking and out of place.

Wellington airport published the design yesterday, with chief executive Steven Fitzgerald saying it would become "New Zealand's newest iconic building".

"Our radical departure from traditional airport design worldwide is entirely deliberate."

Both the interior design and outside shell of the building reflected the airport's south coast location, while coloured fragments of glass in the roof would let in natural light.

Mayor Kerry Prendergast called it fantastic, Rongotai MP Annette King said it was a bold approach to infrastructure and Weta Workshop boss Richard Taylor said it would be "a shining star for our city's future".

But Professor Gordon Holden, head of Victoria University's school of architecture, said he knew of no one who would associate "a couple of big rocks and Wellington".

The number was ripe for comedic parody too. "Did there have to be two of them of approximately equal size?"

Though he thought the interior showed more enclosure and warmth, he worried the overall design was too attention-seeking.

"It always bothers me that, in the search for so-called iconic attention, architectural opportunities of potential significance are compromised to the gods of the novel for shock results."

In a short time, he said, "when the novelty has worn off, we will have an embarrassment on our hands".

Associate professor Russell Walden, of Victoria, who famously criticised Te Papa as "confused and ugly", said the developers should think again about the design.

"These guys seem to be trying too hard to be different ... It doesn't really say airport. It could be anywhere - say on a mountain top, or even on the moon."

Renowned design commentator Douglas Lloyd Jenkins said his first impression was of a "lumpy" mix of The Flintstones and The Lord of the Rings. "Wellington really needs to think about whether it wants to trade off that tired old theme ad infinitum."

"The Rock" is one part of a terminal upgrade that will see improved queuing, more seats, more toilets and a new cafe by 2009.

... but I like it. I think it will look better in real life than as it looks in the pictures. Well done Wellington Airport.

^^Uggggggly :puke: :puke:

I'm so glad that I'll never have to use the MoFo'

I am very surprised that you feel this way considering the fact that you always air your views (venomously I might add) regarding the lack of imagination that persists in NZ. Now we get this bold approach and you think that it is ugly .. I am confused :)

Probably if it was a Moscow proposal you would embrace it ;) ... help me out here GB ;)

I did like the sound of the exterior materials being copper-based, as mentioned on the eyeofthefish blog. This would give it a bit of an aged, weathered, less pumpkin-like look in time.

Doesn't copper turn to that greeny-turquoise colour after time (unless very large amounts of protective chemicals are coated onto it)?? Might this be a slight downfall concerning the use of that particular material? I could envisage wood after age (and rudimentary chemical coatings) still keeping its original 'air' about it.

Doesn't copper turn to that greeny-turquoise colour after time (unless very large amounts of protective chemicals are coated onto it)?? Might this be a slight downfall concerning the use of that particular material? I could envisage wood after age (and rudimentary chemical coatings) still keeping its original 'air' about it.

Part of the charm of copper is that it oxidises when rained on to give a lovely green colour. This is seen in buildings all over the world and can look VERY effective, particularly on old churches and the like.

I still stick by my original opinion though. I would prefer some "cutting edge" architecture in the form of a few more submissions rather than going with the first "last pumpkin in the shop" look. Bring on the bold and colourful, please yes, but bring on the sense of "people are going to have to look at this for a long time to come" too.

fucking awesome!! bout time we got some 'out there' architecture in the country! Hopefully more stuff like this will follow throughout the country! :cheers:

It doesn't seem to integrate with the main terminal building very well and therefore sticks out like the proverbial 'dogs balls'... excuse the pun! :lol:

I am all for gutsy (or ballsy) architecture and this may well grow on me - but I do agree with comments such as Wellington trading off LOTR 'ad infinitum' and the trying to hard for the sake of being different and so on...

I also tend to agree that within a generation this may be frowned upon in the same way that ballsy (or gutsy) architecture from the late 70's or early 80's is i.e. interesting at the time of conception but in the long run misguided - one building that springs to mind is a funny looking dome that you always pass on the Hammersmith flyover here in London; obviously polarising at the time; it now looks just plain stupid...

Yeah I do. On certain projects I wonder if they have got it a bit wrong, but in general I like it, and it certainly livens the place up and adds to the city. Maybe I can be tacky at times, but a transparent shell on this, with the ability for it to be lit up and change colours (like the Allianz Arena) would have done me:)

Ooooooh, we think alike ;)
Auckland & Wellington will be very wise to adopt the same kind of architecture due to the fact that the brightly coloured buildings brighten up a rather dull street-scape on those grey days. It is very clever if you ask me ;) .... Welllington will show the rest of NZ the way :cheers:


This might not be the thread for it but I wanna add a little bit more.

I get frustrated by usually 'older' Kiwis who's only experience of the world other than NZ is Australia. Im talking about the people who think the Gold Coast is exciting with all those amazing buildings or Sydneys Opera House is outta this world or enjoy the rail link from BNE Intl to the city centre. These people say how great these things are and that they set Australia apart from NZ but they are the very same people who shoot back any proposal to have the same type of thing here!

Grrrr.

I can't agree more. Well said mate :cheers:

First impressions are lasting impressions and Wellington will send the right message ... an adventurous city, a fun city, a progressive "think-out-of-the-box" city, a contemporary city, a 21st Century city, a hub of design and creativity ......

This MUST be built !! It is good for the whole of NZ.

I am very surprised that you feel this way considering the fact that you always air your views (venomously I might add) regarding the lack of imagination that persists in NZ. Now we get this bold approach and you think that it is ugly .. I am confused :)

Probably if it was a Moscow proposal you would embrace it ;) ... help me out here GB ;)


Sure!:)

Misguided imagination is wrong

Moscow would not be *dilly* enough to even contemplate such a daft structure.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i29/blairboy_2006/276314580_e0693aeee7.jpg

http://www.stuff.co.nz/images/703445.jpg
Cartoon from the Dom (http://www.stuff.co.nz/680233a17218.html).

:lol:

:cheers: :lol:

:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol::nuts::nuts:

First impressions are lasting impressions and Wellington will send the right message ... an adventurous city, a fun city, a progressive "think-out-of-the-box" city, a contemporary city, a 21st Century city, a hub of design and creativity ......

This MUST be built !! It is good for the whole of NZ.

But as Kiwi_Rich stated would love to see these Buildings intergrated somehow into the existing Terminal , something like the Rocks bursting / tumbling out of the Terminal ............along similar lines of Design , would have been amazing to have a Tuatara Structual Tail protruding out of the Terminal with Head Spikes also Sticking out from the Roof which would give the impression of a giant Tuatara having a lookee in the Building :lol:

But as Kiwi_Rich stated would love to see these Buildings intergrated somehow into the existing Terminal , something like the Rocks bursting / tumbling out of the Terminal ............along similar lines of Design , would have been amazing to have a Tuatara Structual Tail protruding out of the Terminal with Head Spikes also Sticking out from the Roof which would give the impression of a giant Tuatara having a lookee in the Building :lol:

I would be very happy if that happened but when you look at the fly-thru promo video, it is like stepping from one world into another ... a visual experience, a sensual extravaganza (the concept evokes an emotional response) ...... it is the very sort of thing that I like to design i.e. one surprise leads to the next surprise and so on-and-so on (when I start a design I always ask myself, what would one expect and then I do the COMPLETE opposite) ... That is why there is no future for me in NZ as a designer - NZ isn't ready for that kind of thing ;)

More time is spent inside the terminal than outside (which is far more important) ....

I would be very happy if that happened but when you look at the fly-thru promo video, it is like stepping from one world into another ... a visual experience, a sensual extravaganza (the concept evokes an emotional response) ...... it is the very sort of thing that I like to design i.e. one surprise leads to the next surprise and so on-and-so on (when I start a design I always ask myself, what would one expect and then I do the COMPLETE opposite) ... That is why there is no future for me in NZ as a designer - NZ isn't ready for that kind of thing ;)

More time is spent inside the terminal than outside (which is far more important) ....:lol::cheers:

:lol::cheers:

:lol: You are so right Marky ... where is my filthy mind again :lol: ... mmmmm

FUCKING FANTASTIC !! Just what NZ needs .... Wellington makes me so proud :) This is the kind of ballsy stuff that I want to see :cheers:

Fantastic?! It look like god pulled down his pants, squatted, and took a huge dump and left two disgusting turds on the tarmack. Gross! Yuck! Worst design ever IMO.

I think it's pretty cool in a daring way.
Turds, rocks, eggs, acorns.......whatever. Whether you like them or not I think everyone agrees that theyre not boring

It look like god pulled down his pants, squatted, and took a huge dump and left two disgusting turds on the tarmack
^^
Holy crap:lol:

Fantastic?! It look like god pulled down his pants, squatted, and took a huge dump and left two disgusting turds on the tarmack. Gross! Yuck! Worst design ever IMO.

God sure as hell shits some good stuff ... let's hope that he shits all over NZ ;) Some heavenly laxatives is called for :lol: I wish that he will shit all over Brian Rudman, Mike Lee and John Banks - they need it.

Whether you care for this or not. I just applaud that someone is trying something different. NZ suffers from a severe mediocrity in many areas. The design team and airport would have known before releasing this that many would not like it. With that in mind more power to them for not then thinking 'well maybe we should pull our heads in and do a bog standard design because architecture has NEVER been about pushing the envelope.' :bash:

The world is full of polarising buildings, some in my view pull it off (NYC + Bilbao Guggenheim, Gherkin) some dont (Taiwan 101, Pompidou Centre, Brisbane Square) but at least someone had the foresight to propose these and get them built.

I'll say it again, I think this has to go ahead. Hell, Wellington might even get some publicity from it. And there's no such thing as bad publicity apparently.

It certainly will it has the potential on its own to make Wellington a real destination even if it is already. How many international airports around the world could boast a terminal like that. It is quite an experience. If that was done in many other countries you would be looking at a price tag of ten times that price.

Wellington airport is clean and modern already. This terminal design also looks very modern. It makes me think of some European mostly French style buildings. It does not look complete next to the existing building, and is maybe too small. I do like this one despite of these things. Maybe it should be larger proposal then it will make larger impression for visitors and make people very proud.

^^ Yeah I suppose the French have been bulding things like this for decades now. Theyve made an artform of it yeah? Im impressed with that cultural centre in New Caledonia. You know the one Im talking about. But we cant go stealing other people's ideas. This is an ok one of our own I think.

Latest on the north end safety run-off, now in pano view:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/P3020042pano.jpg (http://s79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/?action=view&current=P3020042pano.jpg)

'Rock' terminal going ahead despite comments
Stuff.co.nz (http://www.stuff.co.nz/4442922a13.html) - Monday, 17 March 2008

Wellington airport owner Infratil acknowledges it got good and bad feedback on its "Rock" terminal design but said construction will begin soon regardless.

The $39 million international passenger terminal has been designed to look like rocks, echoing its location on Wellington's south coast.

Comments on websites have called the design indulgent, a mistake of astronomical proportions, and compared it to a child's paper mache project and a couple of cheese balls.

It has also been called edgy.

The building, designed by Wellington's Studio Pacific Architecture, and Christchurch's Warren and Mahoney, is the second stage of refurbishments due to be finished by 2009.

Infratil said it would be fair to say the feedback had been mixed but some architecture writers were coming in behind the design.

The building has all the necessary council approvals and construction will start shortly.

"The design has created a lot of comment, both supportive and not, and we are pleased that the public has been motivated to form opinions and express their views," Infratil said in a monthly update.

Comments and inquiries have been received from people in a number of other countries.

Wellington airport's February figures showed that more people travelled as air fares were discounted, although Air New Zealand today announced a 3 per cent hike in domestic fares.

The number of domestic passengers through Wellington in February was 21 per cent more than last year.

"While Pacific Blue has been the catalyst for the increase the competitive response from the established airlines is also generating significant passenger growth.

"Available domestic capacity increased by 28 per cent from the previous year. Average aircraft loadings reduced by 4.5 per cent from the previous February," Infratil said.

However, the average of 72.5 per cent was still strong.

The average aircraft loading on international flights exceeded 80 per cent.

"Our message remains unchanged in that until more capacity is offered many Wellingtonians will be forced to travel through Auckland or Christchurch to cross the Tasman, or may not travel at all."

- NZPA

Great. It would be interesting to see the finished result. Might silence some of the critics. :D

Im glad to see this didnt have to go through some public input process just to be shouted down. I look forward to this terminal being built. I think that this will be a case of the render not quite living up to the reality. Im certain it will look good but can see how it might seem a bit too much for some.

^^ The same intensity of mud was flung around the Bilbao Guggenheim when it was announced. Now Bilbao's having the last laugh.

^^ Yeah we could probably think of a few buildings which polarise people, they do help put their respective cities on the map though don't they. Architecture is allowed to push the boundaries. And because this is in a very public place which thousands of poeple will pass through daily it will become World Famous in New Zealand very quickly.

I am proud that this is to be built in Wellington. Also intrigued as to how the finished product will look. Bring it!

:banana::cheers::banana:

I'll be really interested to see how this looks when completed.
You certainly can't accuse them of not having balls (excuse the pun)

Posted this in the Palmerston North but feel it deserves another airing;

I actually think Wellington and Palmerston Norths airports should just be used for domestic flights. A brand new superairport serving the lower North Island should be built somewhere just south of Levin.

With excellent high speed rail links to all the major centres; south through Kapiti to Wellington. North through Palmy to Hastings and Napier. North to Wanganui and New Plymouth. The kind of thing the Chinese are doing now. I would love to see this, getting all excited just thinking about it now.

And please, I dont need anybody to tell me it wont happen in our lifetime. Let me dream OK! If only I was a developer with deep deep pockets

Posted this in the Palmerston North but feel it deserves another airing;

I actually think Wellington and Palmerston Norths airports should just be used for domestic flights. A brand new superairport serving the lower North Island should be built somewhere just south of Levin.

With excellent high speed rail links to all the major centres; south through Kapiti to Wellington. North through Palmy to Hastings and Napier. North to Wanganui and New Plymouth. The kind of thing the Chinese are doing now. I would love to see this, getting all excited just thinking about it now.

And please, I dont need anybody to tell me it wont happen in our lifetime. Let me dream OK! If only I was a developer with deep deep pockets

Ohakea has also been looked at for joint military/civilian use, and it's currently building a passenger & cargo terminal for diverted flights. Paraparaumu was deemed unsuitable for jets. Sometime in the early 1990s WLG actually did investigate alternate locations but ultimately rejected them all.

In any case, if an airport has to built away from a major urban centre, a TGV/Shinkansen would solve the problem of speed & distance. The next problem would be economies of scale, since TGVs normally operate between very large cities over a short distance, à la Paris-Lyon or Tokyo-Yokohama. If any airline will fly from there, it certainly won't be Air NZ - it claims it operates most of its long hauls from AKL due to economy of scale, but I'm slightly sceptical about that claim.

In the meantime we'll just have to wait for the aerospace industry to come up with longer-range technology.

How surprised I was to turn to page 13 of Building Design - one of the UK's biggest Construction/Architecture Industry Mags - only to see Wellington Airport's new terminal! See below for the link.

http://www.bdonline.co.uk/story.asp?sectioncode=426&storycode=3110308

I'm not sure if I like the design, but the architect's have got to be happy with press that probably dwarfs The Wellingtonian by millions of readers! In case you haven't read about it, Terminal 5 at Heathrow (by Lord Richard Rogers) has just opened and has been a disaster despite the £5bn + cost.

In any case, if an airport has to built away from a major urban centre, a TGV/Shinkansen would solve the problem of speed & distance. The next problem would be economies of scale, since TGVs normally operate between very large cities over a short distance, à la Paris-Lyon or Tokyo-Yokohama.

Nah, just go the whole hog and build a Maglev, at 400+ Kmh it would only be 90 odd minutes to Auckland airport, (faster than a taxi to Queen street at rush hour):bash:

^^
LOL

And NZ will be bankrupt :lol:

^^ And then Air NZ and Pacific Blue would go bust! Oh yes, unless we got another 60 million newbies living here overnight.


Good to see this making industry news too. Thanks for adding that h2h! Think this is part of my reason for liking this regardless of what it looks like. Its just the kind of thing that makes us get noticed. I couldnt care less if people really like it or not, as long as it does its designed purpose, stands out, and comes in at or under cost thats all fine by me.

Northern runway end, 1 June 2008:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/DSCF3112.jpg

According to Radio NZ (http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/latest/200806180857/39bcbdb6), domestic passenger numbers for May are up 22% compared with May last year.

Wellington's new terminal was mentioned in FRAME magazine (and to get into FRAME magazine it has to be something special) ... well done Wellington and for having the courage to go ahead with it anyway :applause: ... as for the nay-sayers - who is having the last laugh :lol:

Rocky start for air terminal
The Dominion Post | Thursday, 10 July 2008

Construction of Wellington's new international airport building has got off to a rocky start, hitting its first delay.


Wellington International Airport planned to start construction of its new international terminal, named The Rock, in May, but technical problems during preparatory groundwork have forced a two-month delay.

Company spokeswoman Louise Murray said it had taken longer than expected to move a fuel hydrant main before construction could start.

"It is a minor delay in terms of the construction of the entire project . . . Construction of the terminal is now due to start around the end of July."

"Some technical issues" involved in moving the fuel hydrant main were responsible, she said.

The design of the building, which has been likened to a pair of pumpkins, sparked widespread criticism when it was unveiled by the company's new chief executive, Steven Fitzgerald, in March, but he defended it, saying it encapsulated the capital city's individuality and creativity.

The company announced at the unveiling that the entire $53 million international terminal expansion and renovation programme, including construction of The Rock, would be completed by late next year, but Ms Murray said the completion date was now May 2010.

The $39 million copper-plated twin- dome buildings will house departure gates and a cafe and enable the international terminal to double the number of passengers it can handle to 1000 an hour.

It is understood that the design was driven by Mr Fitzgerald's boss, Infratil head Lloyd Morrison, whose company is two-thirds owner of the airport. Wellington City Council owns the rest.

Wellington's new terminal was mentioned in FRAME magazine (and to get into FRAME magazine it has to be something special) ... well done Wellington and for having the courage to go ahead with it anyway :applause: ... as for the nay-sayers - who is having the last laugh :lol:

Sydney - if you don't mind me asking what are Frame and Monument magazines?

I take it that they are architecture/urban design and interior design?!

Whereabouts are they published?

Thanks a million! :cheers:

Sydney - if you don't mind me asking what are Frame and Monument magazines?

I take it that they are architecture/urban design and interior design?!

Whereabouts are they published?

Thanks a million! :cheers:

They are Architecture/design magazines .... FRAME is the sister magazine of MARK (which is fantastic - published in London). MONUMENT is an Australian architecture/design magazine .... here are the links for your perusal:

FRAME: http://www.framemag.com/
MARK: http://www.mark-magazine.com/
MONUMENT: http://www.monumentmagazine.com.au/

FRAME and MARK are two of my bibles ;) awesome !

Great approach from the South. Holy shit the runway's short however - the pilot of NZ758 last night had to use the whole thing and we were only on an A320!! :eek:

Very clean and functional, customs & passport control was dead quick - although, the Melbourne flight is the last to arrive for the night ;)

^^Over here for a visit are ya Tays?

*nod*

on the last leg of a south island tour (posting from Dunedin atm) and back up to Wellington this weekend. Home on sunday.

It's one of the joys of having a smaller airport - the queues aren't half as horrific and the terminal is easier to keep clean. If I had my way I'd fly through smaller continental airports and use Manchester Airport or John Lennon Airport in Britain rather than a London Airport (other than London City) for my journeys, but alas - their international flights are very limited.

Great approach from the South. Holy shit the runway's short however - the pilot of NZ758 last night had to use the whole thing and we were only on an A320!! :eek:

Very clean and functional, customs & passport control was dead quick - although, the Melbourne flight is the last to arrive for the night ;)



^^ Yeah it's only 6647 ft.

Auckland: 11,926 ft

Christchurch: 10,785 ft

Comparison:

Heathrow: 12,802 ft


They say on the internet that you can land a 747 without passengers on 6,500 ft which seems possible.

What I'd like to know is, if it's possible to land using Microsoft Flight Sim and fully loaded both passengers and fuel into Welly Airport.

I'd give it a bloody good try.:yes:

P.S Needless to say I'd be using full reverse thrust,air brakes and wheel brakes on the *big bitch*.....and crossing my fingers and toes.:lol:As for taking of fully loaded - forget it - I think it would be impossible to reach rotational speed on 6,600 ft of runway.

in '91 a united 747 landed at WLG after AKL and CHC were fog bound, it had passengers and freight, but would have been fairly dry of fuel.

To get it back in the air all the freight/Pax were removed and only enough fuel to get it to Auckland was loaded.

in '91 a united 747 landed at WLG after AKL and CHC were fog bound, it had passengers and freight, but would have been fairly dry of fuel.

To get it back in the air all the freight/Pax were removed and only enough fuel to get it to Auckland was loaded.


^^ Awesome!...thanks for that clarification on unloaded status.:cheers:

To be metrically correct... :D

^^ Yeah it's only 2,026 m.

Auckland: 3,635 m

Christchurch: 3,287 m

Comparison:

Heathrow: 3,902 m


They say on the internet that you can land a 747 without passengers on 6,500 ft which seems possible.

What I'd like to know is, if it's possible to land using Microsoft Flight Sim and fully loaded both passengers and fuel into Welly Airport.

I'd give it a bloody good try.:yes:

P.S Needless to say I'd be using full reverse thrust,air brakes and wheel brakes on the *big bitch*.....and crossing my fingers and toes.:lol:As for taking of fully loaded - forget it - I think it would be impossible to reach rotational speed on 6,600 ft of runway.
Definitely worth a try. Landing is a walk in the park, it's the takeoff that needs the length. The B787 is said to have much better takeoff performance than current jetliner technology (including the B747).

Who knows, a VTOL/STOL long-haul aircraft might even get developed. It'd probably be a headache to maintain though.

To be metrically correct... :D


Definitely worth a try. Landing is a walk in the park, it's the takeoff that needs the length. The B787 is said to have much better takeoff performance than current jetliner technology (including the B747).

Who knows, a VTOL/STOL long-haul aircraft might even get developed. It'd probably be a headache to maintain though.

That would be interesting...

Qantas did a few flights with a 747SP to Wellington with landings and take-offs...http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boeing_747SP

I think Wellington is doing pretty well to find 2km of flat land anyway! :lol:

Tayser how have you enjoyed the South Island or "mainland" if you will...

^^
The 747SP was the standard QF aircraft for the WLG-SYD route in the early to late 80's. I saw it often when in WLG.

Who remembers and has flown NAC? Look at that Bristol Freighter - what a blast from the past!

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cf/NAC_F27_and_737_at_Wellington_Airport_1969.jpg/800px-NAC_F27_and_737_at_Wellington_Airport_1969.jpg

Great shot of the 747SP

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/54/QANTAS_747SP_touches_down_in_Wellington.jpg/800px-QANTAS_747SP_touches_down_in_Wellington.jpg

Found this interesting tit bit...........

'In spite of the short runway and frequent winds, there have been very few safety incidents at the airport. In 1991 a United Airlines Boeing 747 made an unscheduled landing after its original destination, Christchurch Airport, was closed by fog. [8] [15] Although the plane landed safely, all passengers and freight had to be offloaded before it was able to take off again. United 747 was diverted from Auckland to Christchurch, due fog at Auckland. Whilst passing Wellington, Christchurch fogged. Low on fuel they diverted into Wellington.,

A post from July last year :|:)

Plane blown away away from airbridge
Radio NZ - 8 August 2008

It has been revealed that a Pacific Blue plane blew away from an airbridge as passengers were getting off the aircraft at Wellington International Airport in June.
more (http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/2008/08/08/12436d6e6b8c)

blown away away from airbridge
Radio NZ - 8 August 2008

It has been revealed that a Pacific Blue plane blew away from an airbridge as passengers were getting off the aircraft at Wellington International Airport in June.
more (http://www.radionz.co.nz/news/national/2008/08/08/12436d6e6b8c)

The youtube video is here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B_ivBUd9yuU

:lol: Imagine that.... :wtf: .......arrrrrrrgh!.Thud!

A post from July last year :|:)

Qantas had a codeshare with ANZ's DC-8s for a few years after selling their old Lockheed Electras. The SP then served Wellington-Sydney for a few years before Qantas introduced the B767. I had the pleasure of flying on both of these types and photographed the SP on the first flight arrival at Wellington.

ANZ flew at least one 747 and possibly 2 into Wellington for airshows. The aircraft was limited as much by the pavement strength on the runway and taxi ways as by runway length. In theory you can operate a 747 to Sydney because the aircraft needs only a small part of the available fuel tankage which is a much larger contributor to aircraft gross weight than mere passengers. In practise you would be cutting the safety margin too close so it could not happen!

I notice that on the latest AIP page that the airport have beefed up their new taxiway strengths presumably for the hoped for new aircraft. Of course it could be just a "typo".

You can forget to take off with a fully loaded 747 on a runway which is only 2km long. :ohno:
I live in the city of Rotterdam in The Netherlands and we had a strange bird on our airport which has the same lenght of runway. You would have a spectaculair crash if it would have taken off fully loaded. It can only leave with a minimum of fuel and no passengers on board.

http://i33.tinypic.com/2qx8b3k.jpg

Qantas had a codeshare with ANZ's DC-8s for a few years after selling their old Lockheed Electras. The SP then served Wellington-Sydney for a few years before Qantas introduced the B767. I had the pleasure of flying on both of these types and photographed the SP on the first flight arrival at Wellington.

ANZ flew at least one 747 and possibly 2 into Wellington for airshows. The aircraft was limited as much by the pavement strength on the runway and taxi ways as by runway length. In theory you can operate a 747 to Sydney because the aircraft needs only a small part of the available fuel tankage which is a much larger contributor to aircraft gross weight than mere passengers. In practise you would be cutting the safety margin too close so it could not happen!

I notice that on the latest AIP page that the airport have beefed up their new taxiway strengths presumably for the hoped for new aircraft. Of course it could be just a "typo".
The runway ends are indeed being extended, mainly to meet ICAO safety guidelines. However they can also double as extra takeoff length. Even then, WLG isn't after the B747- the 'hoped for new aircraft' in question is the B787, which is still to enter service.

The runway ends are indeed being extended, mainly to meet ICAO safety guidelines. However they can also double as extra takeoff length. Even then, WLG isn't after the B747- the 'hoped for new aircraft' in question is the B787, which is still to enter service.

The ICAO guidelines are nonsense as far as Wellington is concerned. 90M is fine if like Christchurch you have a few hundred metres of farmland to overun on but Wellington still has a four lane road with power and trolley lines at one end and a wave trap at the other. A Viscount overan back in 63 and wound up on Moa Point Road. Unfortunately it would not have been able to use the "new" extension because it looks like went off at an angle outside the 90M side RESA and tunnel.

Wellington really needs an overun greater than 3 B737 lengths under these circumstances. That is why I now travel to Wgtn by road and ferry. If you are going to over-run go north and do properly at speed to avoid the obstacles and do it on the weekend. The Coastguard base is just across the bay!

It looks like the South end Resa has not be designed to use the full starter length anyway, maybe because it was not intended to take the strain. There is about 77m that is not included in the latest AIP as the strip has been increased only from 2056 to 2081M. The final Takeoff distance (TORA) are 1945m for 16 and 1921m for 34 compared with 1936 for both before. These are quoted as "final". The overuns are 137m and 160m but again these appear to omit the 77m marked with chevrons.

Bring back Origin Pacific! Jetstreams have plenty of decision time.

I doubt if many people are looking at new 747 services since the 767/777 and Airbus wide bodies are far more economical. If Boeing can keep the 787 weights within the range you may see these aircraft at Wellington but probably not ANZ.

You can forget to take off with a fully loaded 747 on a runway which is only 2km long. :ohno:
I live in the city of Rotterdam in The Netherlands and we had a strange bird on our airport which has the same lenght of runway. You would have a spectaculair crash if it would have taken off fully loaded. It can only leave with a minimum of fuel and no passengers on board.

http://i33.tinypic.com/2qx8b3k.jpg


Boeing quote a max weight of about 300 tonne for a 6000' runway on a standard dry day (57deg F) The max takeoff weight is about 390 tonne for a 3200m runway at sea level (more if at a higher altitude). Since the 747-400 carries 170 tonne of fuel to go 8000 miles, you can leave a fairly large percentage of this behind if you are going 1200 miles or less. The problem comes when you have hot and wet days when runway requirements increase and when like Wellington you are restricted by pavement strength as well which limits weight to about 245tonne. As I said 2000m has no safety margin. Airports tend not to spend any extra if they are not likely to operate larger aircraft except on the rare occasion and Wellington is no exception.

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/DSCF3859.jpg

Construction of the new International Terminal has started:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/DSCF3862.jpg

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j132/deepred6502/Wellington%20Airport/DSCF3851.jpg

Wellington airport reopens after fire
Updated at 4:56pm on 20 October 2008

Wellington airport has reopened after a fire in a ceiling caused by an electrical fault forced the evacuation of the terminal.

Several hundred passengers had to wait outside the building for more than an hour on Monday afternoon while fire crews contained the fire.

The fire caused minimal damage to the building.

Sixteen domestic flights and two international flights were disrupted during the closure.

Wellington airport reopens after fire
Updated at 4:56pm on 20 October 2008

Wellington airport has reopened after a fire in a ceiling caused by an electrical fault forced the evacuation of the terminal.

Several hundred passengers had to wait outside the building for more than an hour on Monday afternoon while fire crews contained the fire.

The fire caused minimal damage to the building.

Sixteen domestic flights and two international flights were disrupted during the closure.

Glad to hear it wasn't too bad.

Boeing and Wellington Airport at odds
By ROELAND van den BERGH - The Dominion Post | Monday, 17 November 2008

Wellington Airport is misrepresenting the ability of the Boeing 787 to fly direct to Asia from the city, despite new information showing it is not economically possible, the aircraft maker says.

The airport company believes the new technology 787 will be the first big jet capable of flying beyond Australia from its short runway, because of its more powerful and fuel-efficient engines.

But Boeing regional president Craig Saddler said the up to 280-seat 787-9, which Air New Zealand has ordered, could not reach Asia with a profitable load of passengers.

Air New Zealand has eight of the next-generation jets on order, and expects to start taking delivery of them from early 2012.

"Wellington International Airport misrepresents the Boeing view on 787 operations from Wellington," Mr Saddler said.

"The 787-9 will not reach Asia with an economic payload from the existing runway."

The smaller 787-8 which Qantas budget offshoot Jetstar has bought would also be load-restricted for a Wellington to Asia route.

The airport was provided with new technical information last month to "clearly illustrate this point", Mr Saddler said.

He confirmed Air New Zealand's analysis that the 1936-metre long runway would need to be extended by 400 metres for Asian 787 routes.

Wellington Airport chief executive Steven Fitzgerald said Boeing's most recent analysis was based only on Air New Zealand's technical requirements, which the airport's experts "consider overly conservative".

Boeing had previously advised that both 787 models would be capable of operating profitably from Wellington.

Wellington Airport's research showed there was sufficient demand to sustain a daily direct service to Asia.

The truth about the viability of international services to Asia from Wellington is probably somewhere in the middle of what the two parties have said.

As far as AirNZ is concerned, they obviously believe that they can utilise their existing aircraft on much more profitable routes - fair enough. In addition to this the 787-9 is going to be a no-show at Wellington for the foreseeable future. So that counts them out.

So what other airline has the capability and the where-with-all to set up these services?

The truth about the viability of international services to Asia from Wellington is probably somewhere in the middle of what the two parties have said.

As far as AirNZ is concerned, they obviously believe that they can utilise their existing aircraft on much more profitable routes - fair enough. In addition to this the 787-9 is going to be a no-show at Wellington for the foreseeable future. So that counts them out.

So what other airline has the capability and the where-with-all to set up these services?
About the only ones that come to mind are SQ and QF.

The airport will be able to handle A350s from Asia. Possibly that may attract some of the budget Asian airlines like Air Asia. I wonder how long it will be until Wellington attract some Jetsar flights to Australia. The new design is quite outrageous for the airport it reminds me of something out of the flintstones. According to a display at Wellington Airport, when completed the new terminal will be able to process around 1000 passengers per hour.:):cheers:

I saw a big new crane up at the airport today, new terminal?

I saw a big new crane up at the airport today, new terminal?
Yes, that'll be the forthcoming Int'l Terminal expansion a.k.a. The Rock.

Wellington Airport
24/1/09


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3474/3224167559_2c77b37902_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/12497592@N02/3224167559/)
Note the crane for the international terminal extension.

Airport looks 20 years ahead (http://www.stuff.co.nz/business/industries/2373462/Airport-looks-20-years-ahead)

By NICK CHURCHOUSE - The Dominion Post
Last updated 05:00 30/04/2009

http://static.stuff.co.nz/1240993038/472/2373472.jpg

COPPER TOPPER: Wellington International Airport's planned terminal, The Rock, was unveiled last year to widespread criticism and mockery, but the design also has its defenders.
Relevant offers

Wellington Airport will boost the regional economy by an extra $24 million if a daily long-haul European direct flight is established by 2015.

An economic impact report made public today spells out the airport's 20-year master plan for managing an estimated doubling of passenger numbers by 2030 to 10 million a year.

The report describes the benefits of a long-haul link through Asia, an option Air New Zealand chief executive Rob Fyfe called parochial and "commercially disastrous".

Compiled by Berl Economics, the report shows 6126 jobs directly created by the airport will grow to 13,436 by 2030, with an extra 8000 jobs created indirectly.

Nearly 400 of those jobs are attributed to a new European route.

Mr Fyfe has said the focus of a long-haul direct link to Wellington was a fractional approach which would split passenger loads and make many long-haul flights unprofitable.

He said a necessary 400-metre extension to the runway was cost-prohibitive.

A preview of the report did not mention these issues but stated demand for such a service would be about 100,000 people a year, enough to start the service, and that would grow to 140,000 within three years.

The impact of the new route would be about $53m overall for the regional economy, with an extra 35,000 international visitors. The airport has been embroiled in controversy in recent years, with airlines accusing it of ripping them off with landing charges and the "rock-like" design of a new $39m international terminal development causing public dismay within Wellington.

But the report indicated the airport was itself an economic rock, indirectly contributing almost as much to regional gross domestic product as the entire education sector.

That was expected to more than double from $669m to $1.4 billion by 2030.

Airport chief executive Steven Fitzgerald will present the report at the Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce today.
--------

$450m plan to expand airport (http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/wellington/2376729/450m-plan-to-expand-airport)

By HANK SCHOUTEN - The Dominion Post
Last updated 05:00 01/05/2009

http://static.stuff.co.nz/1241124113/244/2377244.jpg

BOEING 787 DREAMLINER: The makeover would permit more international flights.

Wellington Airport has unveiled plans for a $450 million makeover that aims to double the number of passengers it handles by 2030 to 10 million a year.

The redevelopment includes a new $195m terminal extension and a six-storey car park building costing $140m.

There are plans to move Calabar Rd up to five metres east to make way for bigger aircraft. Up to 36 houses may have to be demolished around the airport.

The draft 2030 master plan also earmarks $115m in spending on runways and aprons. There is provision to extend the runway into Cook Strait and Evans Bay if necessary.

There would eventually be terminal parking for 42 aircraft 14 more than now.

Unveiling the draft strategy yesterday, airport chief executive Steve Fitzgerald said there was also provision for more commercial development and a hotel. The redevelopment would allow thousands more flights.

Mr Fitzgerald said that, by 2030, Wellington Airport could be injecting $1.6 billion a year into the regional economy, with an annual flow-on impact of $3.1 billion.

"It will generate around 11,500 new jobs in the region, with the airport sustaining a total of 21,000 fulltime-equivalent jobs," he said.

The plan was for staged development to match forecast annual passenger growth of 3.4 per cent doubling the number of passengers to 10 million a year by 2030.

Mr Fitzgerald said he did not expect charges would rise because of the plans.

The terminal would be 70 per cent larger to cope with extra domestic and international passengers.

New generation Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 aircraft, due to go into service in the next few years, would allow for direct flights out of Wellington to more international destinations.

"People in the Wellington region want direct long-haul services and we expect new-generation aircraft to enable these from the existing runway."

Wellington Regional Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Wellington and Wellington City Council all welcomed the plan.

Chamber chief executive Charles Finny said it was "a vote of confidence in the region's future".

Acting Wellington Mayor Ian McKinnon said the airport was essential to the region's wellbeing.

"The council will support initiatives, most starting from 2015, to make the airport more accessible both internationally and locally."

But he said roading and public transport improvements were essential. That included an interchange beside the Basin Reserve, the widening of Ruahine St and Wellington Rd, and the duplication of Mt Victoria Tunnel.

Miramar-Maupuia Progressive Association chairwoman Robin Boldarin said any major development would have to consider traffic and noise. "We'll be monitoring plans which might mean increased traffic flows very closely."

Consultation on the draft master plan runs till August 30.

20 YEAR PLAN

1. Terminal extension to handle twice as many passengers (up to 10 million a year) and parking for 42 aircraft. The aim is to have 126,000 flights in and out each year, 12,000 more than now.

2. Six-storey car park

3. Calabar Rd moved up to five metres to provide extra room for larger aircraft, including the new Boeing 786 dreamliner. Six houses to go.

4. Freight, ground services and catering facilities moved further from terminal.

5. 30 houses, mostly airport owned, to go for extra car parking.

6. General aviation, aero club.

7. Engine testing bay.

Cost: $450 million $195 million to expand terminal, $140 million for car parks, $115 million for runway, taxiway and apron.

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Full plan @ http://www.wellingtonairport.co.nz/

Holy, moly.

How are they going to manage traffic? Surely makes a better case for LRT if the airport predicts that much growth.

I wonder what the plans for the airport post 2030 will be, surely it has to relocate at some point in the future, perhaps to an artificial island in the harbour or strait somewhere. Or maybe we'll have maglev to Ohakea.

Excellent news. Wellington Airport looking forward.

Holy, moly.

How are they going to manage traffic? Surely makes a better case for LRT if the airport predicts that much growth.

I wonder what the plans for the airport post 2030 will be, surely it has to relocate at some point in the future, perhaps to an artificial island in the harbour or strait somewhere. Or maybe we'll have maglev to Ohakea.
Agree on the need for light rail, but it would be in direct competition with the Airport Flyer and parking revenue.

The City of Osaka built an artificial island out to sea 15 years ago, and apparently it still hasn't broken even. There's potential with floating airport platforms (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floating_airport) - Tokyo has been looking into it, as has San Diego after the USAF refused permission for commercial use of nearby Miramar Air Base (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marine_Corps_Air_Station_Miramar). If Wellington ever does build a floating airport, I doubt Cook Strait would be the ideal place for it.

Agree on the need for light rail, but it would be in direct competition with the Airport Flyer and parking revenue.


Not if it is a PPP with Infratil though........

...parking revenue.

The bane of public transport to the airport everywhere! I'm reminded of the problems (conspiracy theories?) people have told me about getting PT (Green Line) all the way into LAX...

The City of Osaka built an artificial island out to sea 15 years ago, and apparently it still hasn't broken even. There's potential with floating airport platforms (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Floating_airport) - Tokyo has been looking into it, as has San Diego after the USAF refused permission...

Thats cool, and a little scary. :) San Diego is quite an amazing airport too, there was a great view from the top of a parking garage right down the approach. (I used to be a bit of an aviation nerd.)

Agree on the need for light rail, but it would be in direct competition with the Airport Flyer and parking revenue.


Perhaps not necessarily. The Airport Flyer could run quite a different route to the LRT service, plus the bus service would be able to stop in far many more locations giving passengers a great choice. I think they could actually end up being a complimentary services.

the new terminal testicles are coming along - a big green skeleton is what I could see this morning driving past. I'll see if I can score some photos at some point.

:lol::lol::lol::lol:Terminal Testicles!!

Brilliant!

Wellington is in many ways a newbie to international tourism more international flights is certain to have a flow on effect for tourism operators in the city. Even the recent increase of flights over the Tasman by Pacific Blue have put the city on the map. It will be interesting to see how tourism will feature as one of the region's major industries in the future. :banana:

Can't wait to see sum updates of the terminal development.:)

:lol::lol::lol::lol:Terminal Testicles!!

Brilliant!
All they need to do now is to relocate the control tower between them. :lol:

From Infratil's Annual report

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3657/3661229991_c5afe16120.jpg?v=0

Also I heard that the Copper will not have a patina finish when it goes up, and will weather green, so it will looks more like racks rather than the orange copper in the renders.

All they need to do now is to relocate the control tower between them. :lol:

Then from a plane flying over it. Well what could I say it would certainly look very dramatic. A very tall control tower sticking up right next to it is two terminal testicles. It might be a new landmark for Wellington like the harbour bridge is to Sydney. Great thing to welcome the tourists to the city when they get out of the plane.:banana:

Nah I really like the airport with the control tower sitting in the suburbs, its like the tower really wants to be a house and has decided to run away from the airport.

Hey guys and girls, just have a few questions about Wellington Airport.

The 2030 Master Plan says that the airport currently has 28 gates. But when I look at Google Earth the airport dosn't seem to have nearly that many? I'm speaking about air bridges where you can walk from terminal to plane without going outside. Of these I can only count about 10. I'm assuming the remaining 18-ish you have to go outside and climb aboard your plane via steps, ie smaller planes as seen on Google Earth?

If you follow the yeallow lines on GE they are number as per their gates I think.

Also, what is the most common plane found at Wellington Airport? I'm assuming it's smaller than an A300? And what is the biggest? - I know it's not an 747.

Does anyone know where I can find a list of planes thats use WI? And I'm also after plans for the 'Rocks', thats proving a little hard.

I'm an final year architecture student in Auckland and am analyzing airports using various software. Any help would be much appreciated! Cheers.

Page 24 of the 2030 plan says Wellington has


•a north-west pier housing mainly international operations, with some domestic gates using a swing gate corridor. It has eight ‘contact stands’ and can accommodate two large aircraft

• a south-west pier for domestic and regional operations, which has stands for four domestic jet and four turboprop aircraft

•a ground-level south pier for regional operations, which provides access to six turboprop stands. There are also three turboprop stands between the north-west and south-west piers, and three remote positions at the southern side of the Eastern Apron.

This to me says they have 12 air bridges and 16 walk-ups

I would guess the most common flight movement would be a 737,
(used by both Air NZ and P Blue,) although Air NZ has a significant prop based fleet Q300s, ATR 72s and beech 1900s, you may be surprised how many of those fly short haul in/out of WLG.

The current largest scheduled movement would likely be a 767,

Page 24 of the 2030 plan says Wellington has



This to me says they have 12 air bridges and 16 walk-ups

I would guess the most common flight movement would be a 737,
(used by both Air NZ and P Blue,) although Air NZ has a significant prop based fleet Q300s, ATR 72s and beech 1900s, you may be surprised how many of those fly short haul in/out of WLG.

The current largest scheduled movement would likely be a 767,

Thanks alot for that, don't know how I missed it!

I fly into Wellington this Tuesday, so it shall give me a better grasp of the airport :)