The last stage of construction will begin soon for Marlborough Airport’s largest maintenance project to date, which includes re-paving the short-term carpark near the terminal. The carpark will close in early April to empty it of vehicles, with works starting after Easter. Airport users are asked to use the long-term carpark until the renovated carpark re-opens in June, weather dependent.

“We appreciate the public’s patience while the carpark is closed, to clear it of vehicles and re-pave the surface. We’re also investing in better drainage, improving the layout for safety, adding 1,000 native plants, widening pedestrian paths and adding a new outdoor seating area,” said Dean Heiford, chief executive of Marlborough Airport Ltd (MAL).

The carpark is the final stage in a $10.7 million maintenance project to invest in airport infrastructure, most of which is re-paving the runway and adjacent aviation surfaces. The project is funded from airport operations, through landing and parking fees. Runway re-paving happens about every 15 years, so this was an opportunity to also improve aviation lighting and access for emergency vehicles, as well as add charging capability for MAL’s first electric vehicle used for safety on the airfield.

TDZ Projects is leading the project delivery, alongside design engineers Beca and contractors Fulton Hogan for the major infrastructure work. From February, the team has been working night shifts, with minimal disruptions to flights, to lay over 70,500 square metres of new pavement across the airport’s taxiway, runway and apron. While most of the carpark improvements will be done during the day, Fulton Hogan will undertake work to the footpaths in front of the terminal at night to minimise disruption to airport users.

For updates on this project and the carpark closure, please visit marlboroughairport.co.nz.

Go to more information on the Runway Reseal projects page on the Marlborough Airport website