News from WCC
Wellington City Councillors, regional mayors and council chief executives were briefed yesterday by Wellington International Airport Limited which presented an independent economic impact analysis of the project to lengthen the airport’s runway.

After the presentation, Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy – the Chair of the region’s Mayoral Forum – said: “The runway extension is a no-brainer. For the sake of the region’s fortunes we need direct international access. It is not good enough for people coming and going from Wellington to have to take the long route via Auckland.”

Wellington Deputy Mayor Justin Lester said the need for better international connections has been a key priority for the city for many years and is an important component in Council’s growth agenda. Most recently it was included as one of Council’s ’8 Big Ideas’. “The Council is positive and believes the time is right for investment in a longer runway. It would be a catalyst project for the city and the region.

“However any decisions will be based on robust analysis of what’s good for ratepayers, the city’s economy and the region as a whole.”

Hutt City Mayor Ray Wallace said Hutt Valley people and businesses are “right behind” the extension proposal. “This should be termed a runway of national significance – the extension would not only provide major benefits for the region but for the whole of central New Zealand.”

Wellington City Council’s Economic Growth and Arts Committee Chair, Councillor Jo Coughlan, said the proposed runway extension needs to be seen as part of the Wellington’s continued growth and wider economic development. “Improved connectedness has direct links to tourism and education, the proposed convention centre, and further indirect links to development areas such as a film industry precinct and film school. There are many factors that will need to be considered. Our approach will continue to be based on fact and analysis.”

Please note: Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown sits on the board of Wellington International Airport Limited (WIAL), so Deputy Mayor Justin Lester and Cr Jo Coughlan are providing comment for Wellington City Council.