New chair for Wānaka Airport Liaison Committee

Rob Phillips has been appointed the independent chair of the newly-formed Wānaka Airport Liaison Committee.

Phillips, the former chief executive of Environment Southland, will lead the committee as it bridges the gap between the Wānaka public, Queenstown Lakes District Council and Queenstown Airport Corporation.

QLDC was taken to the High Court in 2021 by lobby group Wanaka Stakeholders Group, after granting a 100-year lease for Wānaka Airport to Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC).

That was judged to be unlawful, because QLDC didn't properly consult with ratepayers, and terminated. QAC now manages the airport's day-to-day operations on behalf of the council.

The liaison committee’s responsibilities include assisting QLDC (in its role as regulator) and QAC to communicate and engage with the community, reviewing complaints relating to airport operations or noise, and reviewing progress on any airport development activity.

QLDC boss Mike Theelen says Phillips, who has 22 years' experience in leadership roles, "clearly demonstrated through the recruitment process that he’ll bring the skills, experience and independence required".

"His strategic approach, open leadership style and focus on achieving outcomes and recognising the importance of a strong organisational culture will enable him to chair the committee and deliver on its key responsibilities."

The committee is a requirement of the District Plan.

Phillips says he is looking forward to working with airport‐based businesses and the wider community.

"Wānaka Airport plays a wide range of roles including that of a hugely-respected flight training centre and the home of internationally famous air show, Warbirds over Wānaka," he says.

"The committee will be an important new body taking a helicopter view of relevant activities there."

QLDC has appointed Simon Telfer as its representative from the Wānaka‐Upper Clutha Community Board. Other members will be appointed, including representatives from the Wānaka Airport Users Group, Airways and commercial airlines.