New Zealand airports forum to be formed

New Zealand airports: media release

5 April 2006

New Zealand airports forum to be formed

Following a meeting held in Auckland yesterday, a group of 12 airports, including all seven of New Zealand’s international airports, have agreed to begin development of a working group for a New Zealand Airports Forum. Other airports and potential corporate associates have indicated a desire to be a part of the forum.

The forum will focus on issues that are of particular relevance to airports in New Zealand.

Convener of the working group, Graeme Ware, says, “Airports are an essential part of the country’s transport infrastructure, and we see the development of this forum as a constructive and positive step for the industry in New Zealand.”

The forum aims to:

- Promote and advise its members on Government legislation, regulations and supplementary agreements that support the interests of airport members.

- Facilitate cooperation, mutual assistance, information exchange and learning opportunities amongst members.

- Provide members with timely information and analysis of all New Zealand and internationally-relevant aviation developments.

- Generate programs and services that contribute to the benefit of members and the aviation industry in New Zealand.

- Be a representative of all categories of airports throughout New Zealand.

“The forum will work closely with all aviation industry bodies on matters of common interest, such as; border control, regulation, safety and security.”

This new forum is based on international models of airport associations evident in Australia, Canada, the United States and United Kingdom. Membership will be primarily New Zealand’s airports and suppliers to airports.

ENDS