Oamaru airport may reopen

Plans to reopen Oamaru's airport could take off soon if a recent survey of potential users is anything to go by.

The survey by the Waitaki Development Board found 90 per cent of respondents would use an air service either now or in the future.

Christchurch would be the main destination.

In her report to the Waitaki District Council's airport working party, board general manager Susan Houston said 600 surveys were sent out, and 165 people (28 per cent) responded.

The number of responses was very heartening and reflected the enormous enthusiasm within the community for reopening the airport.

The tourism market could also be captured and if the price was right, tourists may prefer to fly from destinations such as Christchurch rather than drive.


- NZPA