Airport History
Kerikeri Airport, officially known as Bay of Islands Airport (ICAO: NZKK), has played a vital and evolving role in connecting the Far North region of New Zealand to the rest of the country. Situated just a few kilometres from Kerikeri township and serving the wider Bay of Islands area, the airport has grown from a modest rural strip into a key transport hub and economic driver for the region.
Originally developed in the 1940s as a basic grass airstrip, the site was initially used for agricultural aviation and occasional charter flights. In the 1950s, as interest in domestic aviation increased, Mount Cook Airlines introduced regular scenic and scheduled services, capitalising on the region's natural beauty and its increasing popularity among both New Zealanders and international visitors.
With tourism and population growth in the 1960s and 1970s, the airport's infrastructure became increasingly important. Local authorities and stakeholders recognised the need for a more reliable facility, leading to substantial upgrades in the 1970s. These included the construction of a sealed runway, the installation of runway and VASI lighting, and the establishment of navigation aids to support all-weather operations. The new infrastructure allowed the airport to handle larger aircraft and expand its services.
During this era, general aviation flourished alongside commercial operations. The Bay of Islands Aero Club became an integral part of the airport's community, offering flight training, scenic flights, and support for local pilots. The club’s presence encouraged aviation culture and played a formative role in the careers of many regional pilots. A number of community-led initiatives and volunteer efforts helped maintain and improve the club's facilities, some of which have since been absorbed into the airport precinct.
By the 1990s, Kerikeri Airport had established itself as a key regional hub. Air New Zealand Link, through operators such as Eagle Airways and later Air Nelson, provided multiple daily flights to Auckland, improving access to and from the Far North for both business and leisure travellers. The airport also supported charter operations, air ambulance services, and search and rescue missions, underlining its importance to the broader community.
A significant milestone was achieved in 2019 with the completion of a $4.75 million terminal redevelopment, co-funded by the Far North District Council, the Provincial Growth Fund, and Air New Zealand. The project delivered a modern, spacious terminal with upgraded check-in counters and baggage facilities—reflecting a contemporary vision for regional air travel. The redesign also addressed seismic resilience and accessibility, ensuring the airport met the latest standards.
In addition to commercial operations, Bay of Islands Airport remains a hub for various aviation-related activities. The Northland Coastguard Air Patrol (NCAP), originally established with support from the Aero Club, maintains a presence at the airfield and plays a vital role in marine search and rescue. Private aircraft owners, microlight enthusiasts, and aviation training providers continue to use the facility extensively.
The airport’s strategic location—close to Kerikeri, Paihia, Russell, Waitangi, and Kauri Cliffs Golf Course —makes it a natural gateway for visitors to the Bay of Islands, one of New Zealand’s premier tourist destinations. Its role in enabling economic development, supporting tourism, and ensuring emergency service access is widely acknowledged by both local authorities and national agencies.
Looking to the future, Kerikeri Airport continues to explore opportunities for growth, including sustainability initiatives, increased flight capacity, and potential new regional routes. With strong community engagement, modern infrastructure, and an enduring legacy, Bay of Islands Airport stands as a critical and cherished asset in the Far North's transport and tourism network.