Auckland, February 26th 2026 – BARNZ member airlines warmly welcome announcements made by Minister James Meager about extension of availability at RNZAF Ohakea.

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“Today’s announcement of funding for extension of air traffic control services at Ohakea will make a meaningful difference for airlines operating to New Zealand today, and for those considering New Zealand destinations” says Cath O’Brien, Executive Director of BARNZ. If Ohakea is available when airlines are flying long haul to Auckland or Christchurch this saves between 4-6 tonne of jet fuel, minimises carbon burn, and ultimately makes destination New Zealand plannable.

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In recent years, Ohakea has had several issues limiting its use by airlines. Limits to air traffic control have meant services to New Zealand have had to operate with fewer passengers and reduced cargo loads to accommodate additional fuel requirements to nominate other alternates such as Christchurch.

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Restoration of capability at Ohakea gives airlines confidence that New Zealand is open for business and they will be able to operate here with confidence. Once air traffic control is fully available in mid 2027, New Zealand will be open for arrivals around the clock.

Our thanks to Minister James Meager, who has worked hard to unlock this important part of the aviation value chain with support from Airways New Zealand. Airlines are also grateful for ongoing support from the Royal New Zealand Air Force who support airline nomination of Ohakea.

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Ends

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Background: Royal New Zealand Air Force base Ohakea (OHA) has served as a key operational alternate airport for long haul services to New Zealand since civil aviation services were first considered. Airlines are required to nominate ‘alternate’ airports should they be required to divert while en-route, and at destination. Ohakea is a jet capable destination alternate for long haul services to Auckland and Christchurch. BARNZ member airlines are able to nominate Ohakea under contractual arrangement with RNZAF.​