Funding from the Regional Infrastructure Fund will be directed to critical wharf and fuel infrastructure upgrades and improved air links for the Chatham Islands through the expansion of an interlining agreement, the Government has confirmed.
Regional Development Minister, Shane Jones said the Chathams’ geographic isolation means reliable connections with the mainland were key to supporting its economic sustainability, education, healthcare, tourism and businesses.
The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) investment is made up of grants of $9.4 million for a major wharf upgrade programme, $5.6 million to upgrade the islands’ fuel storage and distribution network, and $465,000 to support the interlining partnership between Air Chathams and Air New Zealand.
“The wharf programme will deliver a full replacement of Kaingaroa Wharf, repairs to Owenga and Flower Pot wharves and the Pitt Island barge ramp, improve lighting at Waitangi Wharf, and expand livestock infrastructure to improve freight handling and support marine operations,” Mr Jones says.
“The fuel infrastructure project includes the relocation and upgrade of fuel storage and distribution facilities at Waitangi Wharf and will ensure fuel infrastructure is ready to support the new government-backed Chatham Islands supply vessel.”
Crown Infrastructure Delivery will deliver both infrastructure projects on behalf of local asset owners and stakeholders.
Associate Regional Development Minister, Mark Patterson has travelled to the Chathams, where the local community is marking the opening of the new terminal at Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport.
“The interlining funding will make it easier for travellers to access Chatham Islands, while connecting with destinations throughout New Zealand seamlessly from one website,” Mr Patterson said.
“The single-ticket experience across airlines will also see passengers benefitting from improved baggage handling, co-ordinated customer support and better management if travel is disrupted.”
The interlining project is also supported by co-funding from Air Chathams and Air New Zealand.
“These are practical investments that will deliver long-term benefits for the Chatham Islands community by improving resilience, supporting economic growth, and securing the services people rely on every day,” Mr Patterson said.
The new passenger terminal at Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport marks the completion of the Longer and Stronger project, a significant investment in the Chatham Islands’ airport infrastructure. The government has invested more than $45 million in the project since 2018, including $98,000 through the Provincial Growth Fund and $45m through the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.
Since 2015, the Chatham Islands have received more than $150 million in government investment from funds including the Provincial Growth Fund to support regional development.
