Business South February 2026

| 7 Dunedin Airport “Instead of competing for the same travellers, we are designing experiences that encourage people to stay longer, travel further and enjoy more of what the region has to offer.” REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Launched in 2022 Southern Way provides a cohesive narrative celebrating the unique landscapes, culture and diversity of the lower South Island, explains Daniel. “Under that umbrella, the One Trip to See It All initiative emerged as one of the most impactful regional campaigns in recent years.” Delivered commercially alongside Air New Zealand, the initiative encouraged domestic travellers to fly into one southern airport and depart from another, creating seamless multi-stop itineraries. “The goal was to show how easy it is to experience the full breadth of the region in one journey,” explains Daniel. “From coastlines to mountains, wildlife to culture, small towns to vibrant cities the south offers extraordinary variety. We wanted to make that visible and accessible.” The campaign delivered exceptional results. Air New Zealand saw a 75 per cent increase in bookings into Southern Way airports during the campaign period. Judges praised the initiative as a pioneering example of regional cooperation that had delivered measurable commercial impact and strengthened the storytelling of the southern regions. Dunedin Airport has also demonstrated ongoing commitment to infrastructure renewal and service improvement. In the last year it delivered one of its most significant series of upgrades including the rehabilitation of taxiways Alpha and Bravo and major refurbishments to its freshwater systems. Daniel says these investments ensure resilience, safety and efficiency as travel demand continues to rebuild. “This is about preparing for the future of aviation in the south,” says Daniel. “Infrastructure, environmental responsibility and customer experience are all part of ensuring that the airport is ready to meet the needs of travellers and the region over the next decade.” He says sustainability remains a central priority. All airports within the alliance are engaged in the Airport Carbon Accreditation Programme, with Dunedin recently achieving ACA Level 4 and maintaining a firm commitment to achieving net zero emissions in operations by 2030. The airport is embedding sustainability principles into procurement, planning and day-to-day operations. “Sustainability isn’t a slogan for us; it’s a responsibility,” explains Daniel. “The communities we serve care deeply about environmental stewardship, and so do we.” He says the award also reflects Dunedin Airport’s broader contribution as a regional economic driver, supporting businesses, tourism operators and local residents. With the return of international services and a growing emphasis on long-term strategic partnerships, Daniel says the airport is poised to play an even greater role in shaping future growth. “The three-times-weekly service between Dunedin and Gold Coast marks Jetstar’s continued expansion across the Tasman and supports broader efforts to position the Lower South as a must-visit fly-drive destination. The service has seen strong demand from New Zealand travellers with more than 20,000 bookings achieved in the first few months of the service. Work continues to raise awareness and growing inbound visitation from Australia.” He believes the award is both a milestone and a motivator. “This honour highlights what can be achieved when the region works together. It reinforces our commitment to delivering value for our communities and building a strong, sustainable future.” As southern partners continue their joint work through to 2027, with plans already forming for future campaigns and international market activity, Daniel says that Dunedin Airport stands at the forefront of a collaborative regional vision. s“This is just the beginning. Together we’re shaping a future that will benefit the entire south for years to come.” T: 03 477 5214 E: architect@bakergarden.co.nz W: www.bakergarden.co.nz Pleased to be working with Dunedin Airport Specialists in Commercial Construction 03 474 1392 | 72 Willis Street, Dunedin | dunedin@abl.co.nz www.abl.co.nz PROUD TO SUPPORT DUNEDIN AIRPORT Discover Setpoint’s range of innovative products designed to optimize building automation, energy management, and system integration for your facility YOUR BUILDING INTEGRATION EXPERTS Dunedin 03 477 1300 | Christchurch 03 377 5230 | info@setpoint.co.nz

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