Whenuapai Airbase Submissions Close On Friday

More than 600 people have responded so far to the New Zealand Defence Force’s call for submissions on the future use options for Whenuapai Air Force base.

Peter Bollmann, New Zealand Defence Force Director of Property Rationalisation says that with a few days still to go, more submissions are expected. Submissions close on Friday 16 January.

“It is clear that people have put a great deal of time and thought into their submissions which reflect the views expressed at public meetings and mainly focus on whether a civilian airport should operate on the site.”

A civilian airport is one of the four options under consideration by the government for the site once NZDF relocates the air force base to Ohakea. Other options for consideration are public work, industrial development and rural residential sites.

Mr Bollmann says the submissions are being thoroughly read and analysed. Defence will then hold a second round of public meetings to provide feedback on the submissions.

NZDF is continuing to seek information from local authorities in Auckland through a series of workshops with councillors and officials from local authorities including the Auckland Regional Council.

“With just a few days to go we would encourage everyone who wants to have a say on the future of Whenuapai Air Force base to send in their submission.”

ENDS

NOTE TO EDITORS:

The New Zealand Defence Force began consultation on the future use options for Whenuapai Air Force base in October 2003. All information including the discussion document, submission form and other reports are available on the website: www.nzdf.mil.nz

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