Increasing passenger numbers at Wanaka Airport has seen a proposal developed for a $1.2 million terminal," Wanaka Airport manager Tim Johnston said.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council finance, audit, property and corporate committee will be asked on Wednesday to give approval for the proposal to move to the next stage involving wider public consultation.

At present the terminal facilities are provided through a contract between Air New Zealand and Aspiring Air Limited. Air New Zealand had formally approached the airport and the council seeking enlarged terminal facilities.

"Check-in occurs in a small area and with increased passengers the facility is now over-stretched. We have two scheduled services a day at Wanaka and potential for that to double," Mr Johnston said.

A concept design had been developed by Wanaka-based architects Parker Warburton Team Architecture utilising a standard, modular, steel-framed industrial building and natural materials (schist stone and cedar cladding) to break up the line of the building.

"It's a great design that can be expanded or reduced easily when necessary," Mr Johnston said.

The project would only move forward if it proved economically viable to do so.

"The development will need to stand in its own right and we believe we can achieve that through tenancy," Mr Johnston said.

Wanaka Airport already had special status as a tourist destination and the terminal would offer some attractive commercial opportunities.

"The plans include provision for a cafe/restaurant, concession rentals, rental car agencies, airport offices, an information centre and the airline operation facilities. It's a great design on an excellent site, the potential is very exciting," Mr Johnston said.

ENDS

For further information please contact Tim Johnston 0274 323 616

By: Sarah