Turning Wanaka Airport into an international destination would “devastate” Wanaka, according to a visiting American airport builder.

Jim Head has been laying down runways and taxiways in the United States for almost 30 years.

One of his projects was Denver International Airport, which is the biggest in the United States.

He believes the decision to build it “way out in the country” was the right one, and it would also be the right decision for the south of the South Island to build an international regional airport far from town, serving as a hub for the whole southern region.

'I believe we should have faith in “Our Wanaka Product” and take charge of our future accordingly. Mass tourism is a short-term and ultimately fatal approach to growth and sustainability.' https://t.co/d01jZaIjF9 #wanakaairport #overtourism #airportexpansion

— Protect Wanaka (@ProtectWanaka) February 20, 2020

It is the scenario already suggested by Air New Zealand but is in contrast to plans being investigated by the Queenstown Airport Corporation [QAC] to expand Wanaka Airport to reduce pressure on Queenstown Airport.

Read this in full here.

Evening all. Despite its obvious failings, we urge you to take time ASAP to fill out the @QueenstownLakes airport consultation survey. Details below. Once you've done it, tell us what you think! https://t.co/WEXnNwy3gu #WanakaAirport

— Protect Wanaka (@ProtectWanaka) February 21, 2020

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