Winter Olympics 2

Tensions have temporarily eased on the Korean peninsula following the commencement of the Winter Olympics. Despite this thaw, there are increasing signs that the United States is planning a ‘‘limited’’ strike to destroy North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. Should this occur, it is unlikely to end well and a regional war in Northeast Asia could be the outcome.

One of the immediate impacts on New Zealand would probably be the diversion of many airliners to land at at our airports, particularly should Australia decide to close its air space. The precedent for this is the 9/11 terrorist attacks which resulted in 239 airliners being diverted to Canadian airports. In the event of this occurring, it is likely that some aircraft could be diverted to Hamilton Airport. Hundreds (perhaps thousands) of stranded passengers would require local accommodation and it would seem wise to undertake some planning for such an event. While it is hoped such a situation would never arise, it would be prudent to plan for a worst case outcome.

Murray Dear

Hamilton

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