Media release for immediate use
Airports share experience in Christchurch
“Airports are the perfect example of enterprises and systems where interdependence and collaboration are not only the
best way of moving forward, they are the only sustainable way of doing so. That is why the theme of connecting with our
customers, suppliers and other stakeholders was chosen for this conference” said Mr Jim Boult, Christchurch
International Airport chief executive and chair of the Airports Association.
Christchurch Airport is the host airport for the 2012 NZ Airports Conference being held at the Chateau on the Park on
Thursday and Friday this week.
On the opening morning one of the world’s top international aviation commentators, Peter Harbison of CAPA – Centre for
Aviation, will speak on New Zealand’s future in the fast-changing world aviation environment.
Jim Boult said that constant vigilance on the world of airlines and international travel is essential if airports are to
do their jobs well, including understanding the trends and forces shaping world aviation, and how they may impact on New
Zealand.
As well as papers from airport representatives from Australia and New Zealand, the conference will feature speakers and
participants from many of the sector’s key collaborators and stakeholders including Air New Zealand, the Civil Aviation
Authority, NZ Customs Service, Immigration New Zealand, and the Airways Corporation. Martin Snedden, chief executive of
the Tourism Industry Association will represent the tourism sector.
“The Airports Association exists to help airports succeed and if airports succeed then our communities, our regional
economies and our customers will also thrive” said Kevin Ward, chief executive of the Airports Association which is
organising the conference.
“Our members are great at sharing their knowledge and experience for the wider benefit of New Zealand, and the annual
conference is the flagship event for the sector” said Mr Ward.
“Christchurch had offered to host the conference last year, which obviously would not have worked, but we appreciate the
support of our airport colleagues in bringing the conference to Christchurch just as soon as they could. It’s a good
example of the way airports support their communities” said Mr Boult. Mayor Bob Parker will open the conference.