Supporting Chatham Islands connectivity

The RIF investment includes $9.4 million for a major wharf upgrade programme, $5.6 million to upgrade the islands' fuel storage and distribution network, and $465,000 to support an interlining partnership between Air Chathams and Air New Zealand.

The wharf upgrade programme will deliver the full replacement of Kaingaroa Wharf, repairs to Owenga and Flower Pot wharves and the Pitt Island barge ramp, improved lighting at Waitangi Wharf, and expanded livestock infrastructure to improve freight handling and support marine operations.

The fuel infrastructure project will relocate and upgrade fuel storage and distribution facilities at Waitangi Wharf, ensuring the network is ready to support the new government-backed Chatham Islands supply vessel.

Both infrastructure projects will be delivered by Crown Infrastructure Delivery on behalf of local asset owners and stakeholders.

The air connectivity investment will support the expansion of the interlining agreement between Air Chathams and Air New Zealand, making travel to and from the Chatham Islands easier. Travellers will be able to book journeys through a single website, while benefiting from improved baggage handling, coordinated customer support, and better assistance during travel disruptions.

The interlining project is supported through co-funding from Air Chathams and Air New Zealand.

The funding announcements coincided with the opening of the new terminal at Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport, marking the completion of the Longer and Stronger project.

Since 2018, the government has invested more than $45 million in the project, including $98,000 through the Provincial Growth Fund and $45 million through the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.