Air plan could cost another $9m

The $19.3 million New Plymouth Airport upgrade could cost an additional $9.4m after a recommendation for an even larger terminal than was already planned.

In September the New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) approved $19.3 million to replace the terminal built in 1967. But seven months down the track the council’s audit and risk committee has recommended the terminal be made even bigger.

Following discussions with airlines and commercial tenants, who expect an increase in passenger numbers in the years ahead, the committee has recommended a 4092 square metre terminal. The terminal is currently 1,430 sqm.

The larger terminal could cost between $21.7m to $28.7m, all of which would be funded through airport revenue and not rates.

‘‘It will be double the current size and also promote our cultural history, which has been developed with Puketapu hapu as part of the project team,’’ NPDC chief financial officer Alan Bird said.

The original terminal was built to cater for 50,000 passengers each year.

But NPDC said today’s numbers were more likely about 420,000 visitors and New Plymouth was the fourth-busiest regional airport in the country.

‘‘After ongoing engagement and modelling, this larger terminal will meet commercial trends,’’ Bird said.

‘‘The terminal redevelopment is a commercial project that will be paid for by the users of the airport through air- line landing charges, tenant rents and car parking fees – no money will be coming from rates.’’

The higher price tag was due to building material costs potentially increasing, additional floor area and ‘‘sustainable elements’’ in the design.

NPDC said iwi, Puketapu Hapu, Air New Zealand, Jetstar, the Civil Aviation Authority and the owners of Airpresso cafe were consulted in the decision to increase the size of the terminal upgrade.

Council will decide whether to run with the committee’s terminal recommendation on April 4 before holding public consultation as part of the annual plan or 2017/18 budget process.

Six months ago, NPDC unanimously voted on an iconic new airport that was estimated to cost between $16.4 million and $22 million.