16 February 2010

Christchurch Airport passenger numbers increase

Despite one of the toughest years in aviation industry history, Christchurch Airport released statistics today showing that its international passengers numbers have increased by 5% over the financial year to date, compared to the previous year.

“This result is extremely heartening, and shows the success of our ongoing marketing campaigns,” said Christchurch Airport General Manager Marketing and Business Development, Gareth Owen. “Our performance exceeds that of Auckland and Wellington, so it also confirms the pull of the South Island as a top tourist destination.”

Owen believes the strong marketing approach of Christchurch Airport is recognised by the industry nationally and internationally. In 2009, Christchurch Airport won three international Routes marketing awards, as well as being awarded NZ Airport of the Year for its marketing campaigns.

Statistics for the month of January are also positive with increases for both domestic and international passengers. Domestic passenger numbers were up 3.7% on the previous January and international passengers were up 5.2%, which combined means 21,000 more people passing through the airport in that month alone.

“Most of these people are tourists, bringing money into the Christchurch region and the South Island,” explained Owen. “We’re not resting on our laurels either – we are working hard to get new routes into Christchurch. Plus we want this year to be more successful than last year in terms of bringing trans-Tasman visitors to the South Island this winter.  We have several joint venture marketing campaigns underway and the Ski TMN campaign started on the weekend.”