Overview: Whakatane Airport
Whakatane Airport is a regional airport located in the eastern Bay of Plenty region of New Zealand. It serves the town of Whakatane and its surrounding areas, with regular flights to Auckland and Wellington.
The airport was originally opened in 1932 as an airstrip for joyriding flights, but it has since developed into a vital transportation hub for the region. In recent years, the airport has undergone significant upgrades and modernization, including lengthening of the runway and improved terminal facilities.
Whakatane Airport is currently operated by the Whakatane District Council. It is serviced by daily flights from Air New Zealand, with multiple departures to Auckland and Wellington each day.
The airport also facilitates a range of general aviation activities, including flight training, aircraft maintenance, and private charters. The airport is well-known for its scenic flights over the local region, offering stunning views of the Bay of Plenty coastline and nearby White Island.
Passengers at Whakatane Airport can enjoy a range of amenities, including a café, gift shop, and free Wi-Fi. The airport also offers car rental services and ample parking facilities.
Overall, Whakatane Airport is an important gateway to the eastern Bay of Plenty region, providing essential air links for local residents and businesses, as well as offering convenient access for tourists visiting the area.
Terminals at Whakatane Airport
Whakatane Airport is a small regional airport located in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. The airport has just one terminal building that houses all airport facilities and amenities. The terminal is compact and easy to navigate, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking efficiency and simplicity.
The terminal at Whakatane Airport has a range of amenities, including an airport cafe, bar, and lounge area. Passengers can relax or grab a bite to eat while waiting for their flight. There is also a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and local products.
Check-in at Whakatane Airport is quick and straightforward, with friendly staff on hand to assist passengers. There are self-check-in kiosks available, as well as traditional check-in counters for those who prefer to check-in with an airline representative.
Whakatane Airport has one boarding gate, which is conveniently located near the terminal entrance. This means that passengers do not need to walk far to board their flight, making the overall airport experience more streamlined.
The terminal building has been recently renovated to improve accessibility and provide a more modern look and feel. It features free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and plenty of seating areas, making it a comfortable place to wait for your flight.
Overall, the terminal at Whakatane Airport may be small, but it provides all the necessary amenities and services for travelers. Its compact size makes it a convenient option for those wanting a hassle-free airport experience, with the added bonus of friendly staff, modern facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Airlines and Destinations
The Whakatane Airport is served by two airlines, Air Chathams and Sunair.
Air Chathams operates daily flights to Auckland, Whanganui, and Wellington, connecting passengers to a wider network of domestic and international destinations.
Sunair offers daily flights between Whakatane and Gisborne, as well as charter services to other destinations in New Zealand, such as Hawke’s Bay and Tauranga.
While there are no direct international flights from Whakatane Airport, passengers can connect to international destinations via Auckland or Wellington airports.
It is important to note that flight schedules may vary throughout the year, particularly during peak holiday seasons. It is recommended to check with individual airlines for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules.
Transportation Options at Whakatane Airport
Whakatane Airport is a small regional airport located in the Bay of Plenty region in New Zealand. Despite its size, there are several transportation options available to visitors who need to get to their final destination.
One of the most popular transportation options is the shuttle service. Several companies operate shuttle services from the airport to various destinations within the region. These shuttles are often shared with other passengers, which can make them a more affordable option than hiring a taxi or renting a car.
For those who prefer more privacy, car rentals are available at the airport. There are several car rental agencies on-site, including Avis, Budget, and Thrifty. It’s best to book a rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
Another option is the shuttle bus, which runs between the airport and the city center. The bus service is provided by BayBus, the local government-run public transport provider. This is a convenient option for those who want to explore Whakatane on a budget.
If you’re looking to travel further beyond Whakatane, there are train lines that connect the region to other parts of New Zealand. The nearest train station is in Kawerau, which is about a 20-minute drive from the airport. From there, you can catch a train to destinations like Auckland or Wellington.
Lastly, if you’re staying at a hotel or resort in Whakatane, it’s worth checking if they offer complimentary airport transfers. Many hotels in the area offer this service, which can save you time and money.
Overall, there are several transportation options available at Whakatane Airport to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you prefer a shared shuttle, a rental car, or public transport, you’ll be able to get to your destination hassle-free.
Parking Options at Whakatane Airport
Whakatane Airport offers convenient and affordable parking options for travelers. There are two types of parking available: short-term and long-term.
Short-term parking is ideal for those who are only staying at the airport for a few hours or picking up or dropping off passengers. The first 30 minutes of parking are free, and after that, the rate is $2 for every additional 30 minutes, with a maximum daily rate of $10.
Long-term parking is suitable for travelers going out of town for an extended period. The cost for long-term parking is $6 for the first hour and $3 per hour thereafter, with a maximum daily rate of $25. A weekly rate of $100 is also available for those who need to park their vehicle for an entire week.
Both short-term and long-term parking areas are located near the terminal building, making it easy and convenient to get to and from your vehicle. Additionally, there are designated parking spaces for people with disabilities.
Overall, parking at Whakatane Airport is affordable and hassle-free, providing a stress-free start to your trip.
Check-In Procedures
Whakatane Airport offers three methods for passengers to check in: online, self-service kiosks, and traditional check-in counters.
Passengers can check in online up to 24 hours before their flight departure time. This method allows them to select their seat, print their boarding pass, and avoid the queues at the airport. If they have luggage to check in, they can simply drop it off at the dedicated bag drop area.
Self-service kiosks are available for those who prefer a more automated check-in process. Passengers can scan their boarding pass or enter their booking reference number to retrieve their itinerary and select their seats. They can also pay for any additional baggage fees if needed.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, check-in counters are available at the airport. Passengers can present their travel documents to the airline staff and receive their boarding pass. They can also check in any luggage they have and pay any additional fees at this time.
No matter which check-in method is chosen, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport with enough time before their flight departure to allow for any unexpected delays. They should also ensure that they have all necessary travel documents, such as passports or visas, and that their luggage meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
Security Procedures and Tips at Whakatane Airport
At Whakatane Airport, passengers must undergo security screening before boarding their flights. This includes passing through metal detectors and having their carry-on bags scanned.
To make the security check as smooth as possible, passengers should remove any metal objects from their pockets and place them in their carry-on bags before going through the metal detectors. They should also be prepared to remove their shoes, belts, and jackets if asked to do so.
Passengers should be aware of the liquid restrictions for carry-on bags. Containers with liquids must be 100ml or less and placed in a clear plastic bag. Any liquids over this limit must be packed in checked luggage.
It is also important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before the flight to allow for the security check process. By following these procedures and tips, passengers can ensure a stress-free and efficient experience at Whakatane Airport’s security checkpoint.
Customs and Immigration at Whakatane Airport
Arriving passengers must provide their passport and any necessary visas to immigration officers upon arrival. They may also need to declare any items that are restricted or prohibited in New Zealand, such as certain foods or plants.
After clearing immigration, passengers can collect their luggage and proceed through customs, where officers may inspect their belongings to ensure they don’t contain any restricted items.
Departing passengers will need to present their passport and boarding pass at the check-in counter before proceeding through security. After passing through security, they will reach the departure lounge where they can wait for their flight.
Amenities:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
- Café and restaurant offering a variety of food and beverages
- Duty-free shopping for international travelers
- Newspapers and magazines for purchase
- ATM machines located throughout the terminal
- Public restrooms with baby-changing facilities
- Wheelchair accessibility and assistance for travelers with disabilities
Accessibility Services
Whakatane Airport offers a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include accessible parking spaces, wheelchair ramps, and designated seating areas.
Our terminal is also equipped with accessible bathrooms and lifts to all levels.
Passengers can request assistance from our trained staff at the airport or when booking their flights.
We strive to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible for all our passengers.
Connecting Flights at Whakatane Airport
Connecting flights at Whakatane Airport are relatively easy to catch as it’s a small airport. The airport has only one terminal, so you don’t have to worry about navigating through different terminals.
Once you land at Whakatane Airport, follow the signs to the baggage claim area, where you can collect your luggage. After that, proceed to the check-in counter of your connecting flight.
Make sure to check the departure time of your connecting flight and leave enough time between flights in case of delays. It’s recommended to have at least a two-hour layover to avoid missing your connecting flight.
If you have any doubts or questions, don’t hesitate to ask the airport staff for assistance. They will be happy to help you. Finally, enjoy your flight and have a safe trip!
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Whakatane Airport, passengers can proceed to the baggage claim area located near the entrance of the terminal.
Passengers should look for their flight number on the overhead screens to find out which carousel their luggage will arrive on.
If a passenger’s luggage is missing or damaged, they should report it immediately to the airline’s representative at the baggage service desk.
The representative will then provide the passenger with a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) number, which should be kept safe for future reference.
Passengers can also ask for compensation or reimbursement if their luggage was damaged or lost due to the airline’s fault.
For lost property other than baggage, passengers should consult with the airport’s lost property office, which is located in the terminal building.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In the event of an emergency at Whakatane Airport, passengers should notify airport staff immediately.
Police, fire, and ambulance services are available on call, and the airport has a well-equipped medical center staffed by trained professionals to provide first aid and emergency medical treatment.
The medical center is open 24/7 and also provides medical evacuation services if needed.
Passengers requiring medical assistance should seek help from airport staff who will assist in getting in contact with the medical center.
Overall, Whakatane Airport has comprehensive emergency procedures and medical facilities, ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotels available within or near Whakatane Airport. One option is the White Island Rendezvous, which is located just 5 minutes away from the airport. Another option is the Livingston Motel, which is approximately 10 minutes away.
For those seeking more luxurious accommodations, the One88 on Commerce is a boutique hotel located within a 15-minute drive of the airport. The Crestwood Bed and Breakfast and the 37 The Landing Motel are also great options, both within a 20-minute drive of the airport.
Overall, visitors to Whakatane Airport have plenty of options for overnight stays depending on their budget and preferences.
Useful Tips for Navigating and Enjoying Whakatane Airport
Here are some insider tips to help you have a seamless experience at Whakatane Airport.
Firstly, arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and boarding.
Consider packing light to avoid any additional baggage fees and make sure your carry-on items comply with the airline’s regulations.
If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask the airport staff who are always happy to help.
Lastly, take a moment to relax in the airport lounge which offers complimentary refreshments and comfortable seating before your flight.
Contact Information
Airport Manager: John Smith – Phone: (07) 123-4567 – Email: [email protected]
Customer Service: Mary Johnson – Phone: (07) 890-1234 – Email: [email protected]
Lost and Found: Sarah Brown – Phone: (07) 567-8901 – Email: [email protected]
Please note that our contact information is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website or call our main line at (07) 234-5678.
Airports near Whakatane Airport
- Tauranga Airport – located 81 km from Whakatane Airport. Transportation options include rental car, shuttle bus, and taxi.
- Rotorua Regional Airport – located 102 km from Whakatane Airport. Transportation options include rental car, shuttle bus, and taxi.
- Auckland Airport – located 227 km from Whakatane Airport. Transportation options include rental car, shuttle bus, and train.
Consider these airports as alternate options for your travel plans.