Wellington Airport unveils billion-dollar redevelopment plan to cope with increasing passengers

Wellington Airport is expanding and nothing can stop it - not even a golf course.

The airport has unveiled its billion-dollar redevelopment plan to cope with increasing passenger numbers.

A number of Strathmore Park properties offer sweeping views of Miramar Golf Club on Wellington's south coast - but that view is set to change. 

"We're just managing that with those neighbours," said Wellington Airport CEO Steve Sanderson.

Sanderson says 100 properties overlooking the golf course may be affected. On Tuesday, owners were advised of the billion-dollar expansion plan.

The airport has offered $31 million for half of Miramar Golf Course.
The airport has offered $31 million for half of Miramar Golf Course. Photo credit: Newshub

A handful of homeowners told Newshub it was too early to comment on the situation.

"We do intend to keep a green belt between the airport and the houses above the hill to keep the amenity they currently enjoy," Sanderson said. 

The airport caters to 6 million passengers a year, estimating that number will double by 2040.

To accommodate this growth, the airport's expanding beyond its current 110 hectares - offering to pay $31 million for half of Miramar Golf Course.

This is bad news for avid player, John Mewton.

"As golfers, we like to play 18 holes and not go round nine, twice," he told Newshub.

On the other side of the runway, expanded airport operations could displace the retail park - but local cafe Spruce Goose will remain.

Owner Nick Mills welcomes the development.

"I think the fact they're going to spend a billion dollars on making the airport better than it is... how can you not be excited if you're a Wellingtonian," said Mills.

The first step of the airport's redevelopment will be to effectively "flip" the location of its domestic and international terminals.

Newshub.