8 | Christchurch International Airport T TKaren Phelps Creating the foundations for growth Recent major projects at the airport include DHL Express’s new $42 million international gateway, an 8500sqm facility that consolidates its Christchurch operations under one roof. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Christchurch International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is entering a significant new phase of growth with a series of major infrastructure projects delivered this year designed to strengthen the South Island’s connections to global markets. From a $250 million expansion of the Christchurch Engine Centre to a new freight apron, DHL’s new international gateway and a major manufacturing facility for Enatel, the projects are increasing the airport’s capacity and supporting high-value jobs, trade and international connectivity. “These projects are about preparing Christchurch and the South Island for the opportunities ahead, rather than simply responding to today’s demand,” says CIAL manager strategic communications, Sean Tully. A major investment has been the expansion of the Christchurch Engine Centre, a joint venture between Pratt & Whitney and Air New Zealand. The $250 million project will add 14,000sqm of capacity and create about 200 new high-value technical jobs. “The expanded engine centre will secure Christchurch’s place in the international aviation supply chain for decades to come,” says Sean. “It will ultimately have the capacity to overhaul up to 140 Geared Turbofan Engines (GTEs) a year, bringing highly specialised work and skills to the region.” The first GTF engine is expected to enter the facility in the fourth quarter of 2026, with fullscale throughput anticipated by 2032. More than 90% of the centre’s current work comes from overseas, highlighting the international nature of the business. Another addition to the airport campus is Enatel’s new 8000sqm manufacturing, engineering, distribution and office facility at Dakota Park. The purpose-built structure is designed to support the company’s industrial battery-charging technology and global electrification markets. “Enatel’s new facility demonstrates how the airport campus is becoming home to advanced manufacturing and technology businesses, as well as traditional aviation operations,” says Sean. Freight capacity has also received a major boost with the opening of CIAL’s new $40 million freight apron in June. Covering an area larger than six rugby fields, and big enough to fit up to eight smaller freighters or four larger widebody aircraft, the apron provides greater flexibility and capacity for freight operators. “This investment gives exporters the reliable infrastructure they need to connect South Island products with international markets and creates room for future growth,” says Sean. Alongside all the major freight companies based at the airport, the new apron is complemented by DHL Express’s new $42 million international gateway, an 8500sqm facility that consolidates its Christchurch operations under one roof. It can process up to 6500 inbound and 5600 outbound parcels an hour, and its high-speed X-ray screening system is designed to increase throughput significantly. “These freight investments strengthen Christchurch’s role as a logistics hub and make it easier for South Island businesses to reach customers around the world,” says Sean. International passenger connectivity is also expanding. Under a new, long-term partnership with Air New Zealand, three new nonstop routes from Christchurch to Singapore, Tokyo and Perth are due to begin from late October. “Christchurch Airport is gearing up for its biggest international summer season yet, with airlines adding new long-haul routes, more flights and larger aircraft, and airlines extending services beyond the traditional summer peak,” says Sean. “More than 1.27 million international seats will be available across the season between November and March, 21% more than last summer. Together, these developments strengthen Christchurch’s position as the South Island’s international gateway.” Residential / commercial foundations & floors Excavations & siteworks Decorative concrete, driveways & landscaping Concrete pumping & placing www.bcpltd.co.nz
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