No more departure tax at Airport

Passengers flying out of Rotorua Airport will no longer have to make a compulsory stop at the departure levy counter, with fees now passed on directly to commercial airline customers.

From 1 February 2015, the $5 domestic and $15 international departure levy tax will be absorbed into the airport’s landing fees, meaning passengers no longer have to pay the tax directly before they depart.

The departure levies were first introduced in 2002 to make a contribution to the ongoing development of the airport. The adjustment to the airport’s charges is a result of increased airfield charges, allowing the company to recover departure taxes from commercial airlines, rather than directly from passengers.

Acting chief executive Wayne Wootton says the decision is a positive one for the airport and the local community.

“The airport is committed to providing comprehensive travel options that meet the needs of our partners, the tourism and business sectors, as well as local residents. There have been a number of initiatives underway over recent months to improve airport services and this is yet another example of that.

“We have worked closely with our airline customers to reach this outcome and it is a positive development for the community, streamlining the departure process further for travellers.”

The departure levy desk will remain and function as an information site and help desk for customers. Staff that have worked at the levy desk, some for many years, will also remain to assist with queries.

“In the short time I’ve been here I already know our departure levy desk staff are well-known to our regular travellers. The help desk will be manned part-time by these familiar faces, with staff also picking up other responsibilities. The desk will have a direct helpline to staff at all times.”

Mr Wootton says the increased landing costs may eventually be absorbed into ticket prices.

“This is ultimately a decision by the airlines that operate out of Rotorua, however we have not seen any evidence of increased fares to-date.”

Since 2002, the departure tax has contributed to runway and terminal developments, as well as airport infrastructure renewals and replacements. Going forward it is expected the additional revenue collected directly from the airlines will continue to be used for similar purposes.

The revised landing charges apply to scheduled commercial passenger services from 1 February 2015. Landing charges have also been reviewed for non-scheduled services and updated rates are available on the airport website www.rotorua-airport.co.nz, include discounts for locally-based operators.

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