Air New Zeland is assessing an option of a second airport in Auckland which could operate from Whenuapai, which is currently used by the Defence Force. Air New Zeland is preparing a proposition to the Government together with the operator of Wellington Airport - Infratil.

The CEO of Air New Zeland said that there are examples around the world where commercial operators operated flights alongside the military. He also stated that commuting to the second airport in Whenuapai would decrease travelers´ commute time to 20 minutes and that the second airport would let the company lower their fares.

CEO Christopher Luxon said that if the second airport is considered the company would engage with the community.

The Defence Minister Ron Mark said that Air New Zeland would face serious opposition from the residents living under the flight path to Whenuapai airbase.