Sustainability

Nelson Airport is a key strategic asset for the Nelson-Tasman region, so it’s vital our operations are sustainable and enduring – and that those of our key partners in the aviation sector are too. We are committed to improving our sustainability performance, building on the strong foundation of the terminal’s energy efficient design. Our coastal location will always pose challenges associated with climate change and sea level rise. We need to respond and adapt to protect the airport’s infrastructure and maintain our region’s links with the rest of New Zealand and the world.

This page outlines some of the work we have underway.

Our Terminal

The terminal building was designed to be highly energy efficient and resilient.  Passive ventilation, light harvesting and the use of a  timber structure (with far less embedded energy than if steel had been used) are key sustainable design features, and are coupled with a resilient seismic structural solution.

Passive thermal design and solar chimneys keep energy usage to a minimum. A sophisticated building management system (BMS) constantly monitors and responds to multiple internal and external temperature sensors, light meters, rain and wind speed metering. The system responds to these inputs by opening and closing banks of windows, raising and lowering auto-blinds, dimming internal lights when daylight levels are high, activating fans and opening or closing the five pairs of solar chimneys. Off-peak electricity is used to warm the underfloor insulated slab, which then emits warmth constantly over the 16-18 hours a day the terminal is open.

Project 2-Zero

Our current runway is expected to be too short to accommodate future sustainably-powered aircraft. The development of zero-emission propulsion systems and next-generation aircraft is a key focus of the aviation industry’s current research and development efforts, and is key to aviation’s transition to a low-carbon future. For Nelson to have the ability to host these future aircraft, we must extend the length of our runway within the next 10 - 15 years. Project 2-Zero is our plan to achieve that.

Other initiatives

  • Independent measurement of emissions

  • Continued composting scheme for Nelson Airport and two major airport tenants

  • Gained Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation with Airports Council International

  • Introduction of public eBus services at the airport

  • Sustainability and carbon minimisation measures considered in all construction/ civil projects

  • Move towards LED and solar lighting in buildings and carparks

Responding to climate change

Nelson Airport is susceptible to flooding and coastal erosion, and we know the challenge will only grow because of the accelerating impact of climate change. We have committed to voluntary climate disclosure reporting, and published our first Climate Report in 2024. Between now and the 2026 financial year, we are voluntarily working towards full compliance with the Climate Related Disclosures legislation, despite not being a climate-reporting entity under the legislation.

Some of the work completed so far includes:

  • Identification of physical and transitional risks for climate adaptation

  • Planned programme of infrastructure improvements

  • Started work on the first major airport stormwater infrastructure project for 80 years

  • Engagement with the Nelson City Council Climate Adaptation community consultation process