Report is final step in airport performance regime

Commerce Commission’s Christchurch report is final step in establishing an effective information disclosure regime, says New Zealand Airports Association

The Commerce Commission’s report on Christchurch Airport is the final step in a process that was key to establishing an effective information disclosure regime, says the New Zealand Airports Association.

New Zealand Airports Association chairman Steve Sanderson said the review process, which has also included reports on Wellington and Auckland airports, had led to a greater understanding among all parties about how airport performance in New Zealand will be monitored and measured.

“It is very positive that the Commission has recognised that information disclosure regulation is effectively promoting innovation and quality at Christchurch Airport” said Mr Sanderson.

“These are key aspects of the airport’s experience that are important to passengers, airlines and to New Zealand, and this process has demonstrated the disclosure system is already working well to promote these positive outcomes.”

Mr Sanderson said that, although the Commission had expressed concerns at the potential level of long-term returns that Christchurch Airport may target in the future, it has endorsed the actual prices set for the next four years as appropriate in the unique circumstances following the earthquakes and major investment in a new airport terminal.

“The Christchurch findings are a further example of New Zealand airports setting prices that are appropriate in their differing circumstances and taking into account the needs of their consumers.

“Christchurch Airport consults with its customers every five years on airport charges. The prices it has set for the current five year period have been endorsed by the Commission. The airport has always committed to consultation with customers in 2017 on the prices that will actually apply from that date onwards, and to taking into account the market conditions at that time.”

Mr Sanderson said that, overall, the Commission’s findings have confirmed the airport sector in New Zealand is in good health.

“The reports have established that the sector is characterised by high quality and innovative airports that are investing efficiently in long-term and complex infrastructure necessary to cater for New Zealand’s future growth,” he said.

“New Zealand’s airports will continue to work to grow valuable tourism and trade for the benefit of all New Zealanders.”

ENDS

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