Fletcher Tabuteau MP
Spokesperson for Commerce

23 September 2015

Questions hover over Iroquois tender - why were Kiwi bids rebuffed?

Questions surround the rejection of Kiwi bids for the RNZAF’s retired Iroquois, one of which was $4.5 million, says New Zealand First.

“New Zealand First wants reconsideration of the tender with haste before the sale to a US firm is finalised,” says Spokesperson on Commerce Fletcher Tabuteau.

“Were the Kiwi bids summarily rejected because of a government blunder, a miscarriage of the tender process or a political promise to the US?

“The $4.5 million bid, together with several other bids from Kiwi companies, was ditched without ceremony, despite being for a similar amount to the winning tender from US spare parts company, Dakota Air Parts.

“New Zealand firms have missed out on growing their businesses. The retention of the aircraft in New Zealand would have provided work and employment in the regions, up to 15 new jobs in one case.

“Tender documents stated that the ‘best value for money’ was part of the awarding strategy. Surely that means the best value for New Zealand must be considered.

“Tenders for the 10 aircraft and spare parts were submitted by reliable and proven New Zealand aircraft operators. But one company says the tender panel did not even respond, despite the company putting together a solid and compelling case.

“Was the decision already made, before the tender was advertised, and if so, why?

“There is time to fix a wrong as US and New Zealand Government approval has not yet been given for the sale.

“It is particularly galling for hard working Kiwi tenderers when they are already receiving emails from Dakota Air Parts offering the Iroquois parts for sale to them.”

ENDS

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