- Enabling works happening at Gisborne Airport this week
- Preparing for terminal redevelopment next year
Visitors to Gisborne Airport this week will notice the first signs of the much-anticipated terminal redevelopment.
“Contractors Fulton Hogan and Earthworks are undertaking some enabling works over the next few days, in preparation for the major construction period which will begin early in the new year,” says Matt Todd, chief executive of airport operator Eastland Group.
From Wednesday until the end of the week, the contractors will be digging a trench between the terminal and control tower, laying ducting, then filling the trench in.
“People can still drop passengers off directly outside terminal as usual. However, for the next few days they will then need to exit through the car park. We’ll have a parking warden in a high vis vest stationed in this area, and they’ll show people exactly where to go.”
Taxis will be parking in their usual spot.
The contractors will also be laying gravel down on the grass area to the left of the road to the terminal. This will be used as temporary, free additional carparking in 2019.
The new terminal will be an iconic building that celebrates the unique stories of the Tairāwhiti region. It will replace an overcrowded building that’s half a century old and no longer fit for purpose.
Gisborne District Council, Ngai Tawhiri, Eastland Community Trust and Air New Zealand are also involved in the project. In September, Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones announced Provincial Growth Fund support of $5.5 million towards the redevelopment.
Tenders for the construction of the terminal are currently being finalised.
“These small enabling works are happening at short notice, because the contractors were able to fit them in now around their busy schedule,” explains Mr Todd. “There may be a bit more congestion than usual in the area this week, and we thank the community for their understanding and patience.
“Before the major construction begins, we’ll install comprehensive signage across the airport explaining what’s happening and when. There will also be regular updates in the Gisborne Herald and elsewhere.
“In the meantime, we encourage people to like the official Gisborne Airport Facebook page @GisborneAirport to stay up to date.”