Oamaru Airport charts a course towards CAA certification

Published on 06 August 2026

As New Zealand’s fourth-busiest airport, after recording 82,720 aircraft movements in 2025, the Civil Aviation Authority has requested that Oamaru Airport gain certification to align with internationally recognised safety and operational standards for a busy airport.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has provided its feedback on the aeronautical study completed by Waitaki District Council in 2024 in response to the airport’s rapid growth in aircraft activity.

The CAA has recommended that Oamaru Airport become a qualifying aerodrome under Part 139 of the Civil Aviation Rules, requiring a qualifying aerodrome operator certificate under the Civil Aviation Act 2023.

Part 139 sets nationally consistent requirements for certification, ongoing operations, safety oversight and security—providing a robust framework to support the airport’s continued growth.

Aircraft movements at Oamaru Airport have increased more than fivefold, from 13,104 in 2019 to 82,720 in 2025. That remarkable growth places Oamaru ahead of Wellington (66,253 movements) and Queenstown (66,864), and behind only Auckland (158,597), Ardmore (109,207) and Christchurch (104,090).

Waitaki District Council appointed an Airport Manager in 2025 to ensure the airport had the management and oversight now required as well as ensuring the Council and ratepayers interests were protected. This early preparation positions the Council to meet the higher standards of governance, safety management, compliance and maintenance that certification will bring.

Speaking about the required certification, WDC Chief Executive, Alex Parmley said,

“Oamaru Airport is an important asset for our economy and local community. It has grown massively over the past six years and with that growth comes responsibility for the Council to ensure that the airport is run safely and in the best interests of the community and ratepayer. Our airport manager is helping to ensure we do that.

“The CAA, as regulator, is responsible for ensuring we and all airport operators meet rigorous standards, but the requirements vary depending on the busyness of the airport and other factors.

"Certification would mark a significant milestone for Oamaru Airport - recognising its transformation into one of the country’s busiest aviation hubs while strengthening the systems needed to support safe, resilient and sustainable operations for the future.”

ENDS

media@waitaki.govt.nz