The Puketapu ki Paraparaumu Trust has today released its strategic intent for the future of Kāpiti Coast Airport and the surrounding whenua.
The vision outlines a bold, co-created development model that retains the airport as a strategic regional asset while enabling economic independence for hapū and iwi partners, alongside broader benefits for the entire Kāpiti community. It reaffirms its commitment to restoring the land to its original owners and unlocking long-term value for the wider Kāpiti community.
The proposal is designed to create opportunities for all by investing in housing, innovation, aviation, and commercial growth. It will deliver long-term value across cultural, social, environmental, and economicdimensions.
“Key to our vision is the clarification of revenue streams and the tangible benefits the airport can provide to our community,” said Tony Jackson, Chair of the Puketapu ki Paraparaumu Hapū. “We see the airport playing an integral role in Kāpiti’s identity and regional interconnectivity story.”
The Trust’s approach prioritises financial viability, long-term sustainability, and partnerships that reflect the aspirations of the broader community. A commercial model is now being developed to support a profitable entity, backed by a growing network of strategic investors.
“As our hapū has set its direction, our focus is now on implementation,” said Mr Jackson. “The whenua holds immense potential—supporting sustainable regional aviation, housing, innovation, and high-value local employment.”
The strategy aligns with established district and regional development priorities and has attracted strong support from iwi and sector leaders.
“Our board is well aware of the journey the tūpuna of Puketapu ki Paraparaumu Trust have been on over the last 85 years to restore their mana whenua in Paraparaumu,” said Rawiri Tawhai-Bodsworth, Chair of Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai Charitable Trust. “We walk alongside our hapū in whanaungatanga and rangatiratanga.”
Kāpiti Coast Airport is recognised as a critical infrastructure asset in the Greater Wellington Regional Economic Development Plan. Its future is now being shaped through collaborative planning between iwi, the Council, and the private sector.
“A viable airport, alongside large-scale development and innovation precinct, presents a compelling proposition—driving jobs, attracting ventures, and improving access to new markets,” said Marcel van den Assum, Tech Investor.
“We support the aspirations of our iwi partners and are committed to integrating them into Kāpiti Vision 2060 and our long-term planning,” said Kris Pervan, Group Manager Strategy & Growth at Kāpiti Coast District Council. “Council has a role to play—particularly in aligning town centre integration, enabling regulatory processes, and facilitating early engagement.”
Airline operator Air Chathams noted that the operational complexity of the airport is often overstated.
“The right partner can simplify the model,” said Duane Emeny, Chief Executive Officer at Air Chathams.
“What matters is embedding commercial viability within a well-run, community-aligned airport.”
A cross-sector working committee has been formed to progress due diligence, develop investment pathways, and build stakeholder confidence in delivering a regenerative model for the land. An investor summit was held last month to advance this co-created proposition.
“There is strong collective determination to realise this opportunity,” said Mr Jackson. “This is about restoring our land, creating value, and building a legacy for future generations.”