The regional city of TaupÅ, located at the center of New Zealand's North Island, has welcomed its first passengers through the new terminal at Taupo Airport (TUO). The NZ $9.72 million ($6.13 million) project was officially blessed (by local Maori iwi), with operations now in full swing.The old airport is unrecognizable, with a new terminal three times larger than its predecessor. The Taupo District Council's 2018-2028 plan heavily supported the project with a new terminal designed by Shelter Architects and built locally by Watts Construction. The airport's water and wastewater upgrade was also completed in 2020.
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An asset to the district
With the first flight touching down, TaupÅ District Mayor David Trewavas commented in the New Zealand Herald:
“This is going to be an asset to our entire district. It looks absolutely fantastic and is distinctly TaupÅ. Thanks to all the locals involved in this who have gone the extra mile in really challenging times — they can be very proud of what they have achieved — and thanks also to the community for their patience while the construction was underway.”
Interior features that nod to the region include two large rimu tree trunks that fell in the Pureora forest and have been salvaged and donated by Te Kotahitanga o Ngati Tuwharetoa and local hapu Ngati Te Kohera.
Parking now incurs a fee
In the past, parking was free at the airport. However, with a large upgrade to the airport's parking lot, there will now be a cost to store your vehicle. Travelers can park for up to 30 minutes at no cost. Any longer will incur a fee of NZ $2 ($1.26) per hour up to a maximum of $14 ($8.83) for 24 hours.
Serviced by two airlines
Visited by just two carriers, Air New Zealand and Sounds Air, provides an adequate schedule to two major New Zealand cities.
Sounds Air operates directly to Wellington International Airport (WLG), with Air New Zealand operating solely for Auckland International Airport (AKL). The national carrier once operated to Wellington; however, this was dropped as the carrier refocused operations.
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A popular tourist destination
Some readers may be wondering what is so essential about Taupo. Located on the shores of New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo, the area is home to around 26,000, with the population sweltering over the summer months. With many holiday homes and tourist attractions nearby, nature lovers flock to the region for skiing, boating, fishing, and hiking. The city has a range of eateries, shopping, and other tourist attractions.
Sources: New Zealand Herald, Taupo District Council
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Air New Zealand
- IATA/ICAO Code:
- NZ/ANZ
- Airline Type:
- Full Service Carrier
- Hub(s):
- Auckland Airport, Christchurch Airport, Wellington Airport
- Year Founded:
- 1965
- Alliance:
- Star Alliance
- CEO:
- Greg Foran
- Country:
- New Zealand
- Region:
- Oceania
