A regional air service between Wānaka and Christchurch is tipped to return.
Wānaka-Upper Clutha Community Board chairman Simon Telfer said discussions were continuing to progress after a recent visit to the town by airline management.
"There is an interest in looking at the feasibility of a Wānaka- Christchurch regular connection," he said.
"We have asked the airline to come back to us with how we could support their initial studies."
Mr Telfer declined to name the airline, citing commercial sensitivity.
Mr Telfer said he believed the initial meeting was a positive step for the future of the Wānaka Airport.
"The community was very strongly in favour of regional connectivity and I am very supportive about that, particularly for those that have medical appointments in Christchurch, children who have schooling there, and in case we have an emergency here [in Wānaka], he said.
Earlier this year an independent consultancy Egis presented the findings of its survey to councillors after two rounds of community engagement around potential development scenarios, along with recommendations for the future planning and management of the airport.
Its consultation found a strong preference for "a general aviation airport" supported by limited turboprop services (less than 30- seat aircraft) to nearby cities.
In 2023, the Civil Aviation Authority issued formal notice that the airport must meet a higher standard of compliance by July 2027, requiring mandatory safety, operational and management upgrades.
Then, in 2025, Sounds Air ended its services to the airport, leaving Wānaka with no scheduled regional services, intensifying community interest in the airport's future.
Source: Otago Daily Times
- Will be interesting to see who the 'mystery airline' is. Originair seems to fit the bill. Already operates flights to Christchurch (ex Blenheim), and has capable aircraft (less than 30 seater Turboprop aircraft). Watch this space! -LF
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