Royal Air Force New Zealand to build civilian-capable air terminal

ROYAL Air Force New Zealand's (RAFNZ) is to build a new passenger and cargo terminal at cost of NZ$10 million to NZ$15 million (US$8 million) at its Ohakea Air Force Base, near Palmerston North.

The 5,750-square-metre terminal will be able to handle 250 passengers of defence staff and up to 750 people for the housing of customs, immigration and MAF border processes. The facility will provide in-flight meals supported by kitchens, aircraft catering and provisions annex with offices and toilets. It will boast arrival and departure lounges, baggage carousels and check-in desks.

Civilian passengers will be allowed in emergencies but it is unknown if this will ever be a permanent base for non-Defence flights and passengers, said Palmerston North Airport manager Darin Cusack.

In the past Ohakea base was used for emergency stop-offs leaving passengers waiting on the runway for lengthy times which was "highly embarrassing", said Rangitikei MP Ian McKelvie, reported the Manawatu Standard.

The Defence department has led the project as part of its five-year programme of essential infrastructure projects for the RNZAF and "to provide critical facilities required by the air force for the future", said Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman.

It comes hot on the heels of the opening of its Maintenance Support Squadron buildings which cost the government NZ$43 million.

The position of Ohakea places it as a significant airport for emergency supplies should Civil Defence disaster strike in Wellington, said the report.

Tenders for construction will be called in November with work to start early 2013 and to complete by year end.