We have put together a series of FAQs to help answer questions the public may have.
Why is Northland Emergency Services Trust (NEST) moving to Onerahi Airport?
There are issues with the current Kensington base such as a lack of space, having to take off and land next to busy sportsfields as well as concerns from the community about noise.
The Whangārei Airport is designated for aviation activities and NEST can meet civil aviation flying regulations, in almost all weather conditions, which is a priority for a rescue service.
NEST requires their base to be close to Whangārei Hospital, have clear approach and departure paths, offer good operational safety for crew and the public, and comply with civil aviation regulations.
Why can’t NEST move to a non-residential area?
Over the last two years, NEST has looked at a number of alternative base sites around Whangārei and considered the criteria for establishing a safe and efficient base for operations.
They considered other sites in both semi-rural and industrial areas of Whangārei, including having on-site discussions with the Civil Aviation Authority, but there were drawbacks with each of the other sites. Whangārei Airport offered the best operational compliance of all the sites considered.
Where will the NEST base be located at the airport?
We are assessing different locations at the airport to find one that best meets the operational needs of NEST while minimising noise for residents. This process should be completed by the end of July 2022.
Does Whangārei Airport zoning allow for NEST to operate there?
Yes, Onerahi Airport is designated as an airport with the planning framework allowing for this activity.
How many flights a day will there be?
On average, NEST fly 3 missions in a 24-hour period and about one-third of the flights are at night-time.
Will training take place at the Airport?
NEST will be moving as much of the training as possible away from the airport.
Doesn’t this just move a noise problem from one community to another?
This will shift the activity to a designated airport. However, NEST will be looking at what initiatives they can employ at the airport with design and procedures to reduce noise and emissions. For example, their “Fly Neighbourly” programme looks to find ways to reduce noise and emissions without compromising safety or effectiveness.
What is Council’s role within this?
Whangārei District Airport is a joint venture between the Ministry of Transport and Whangarei District Council and operates as a Council Controlled Organisation (CCO). The CCO contract Northland Aviation Limited to manage the airport on their behalf. Council has approved in principal a lease for NEST at the airport, and has a separate role in regulating compliance with the District Plan.
What is going to happen to the current Kensington park base?
It will be used for recreation, possibly to extend hockey facilities or be turned into open space for the community.
Will the ambulance service also be relocating to the airport?
No, shift of Ambulance services is not planned under this proposal.
What is the purpose of the Airport Noise Management Committee?
To consider, and where appropriate make recommendations to Council on aircraft noise and any other concerns that arise from the operation and activities at the Whangārei Airport.
Key responsibilities include:
- Identify community concerns regarding aircraft noise.
- Co-operatively formulate and propose methods and procedures to minimise noise impact on the surrounding community.
- Act as an advisory and complaints committee and make recommendations to the airport manager concerning noise complaints.
- Report any noise complaints with the subcommittee’s recommendations to the the Council.
- Assist and advise the Whangārei Airport Authority concerning the dissemination of relevant information to the community.
- Review current procedure for handling noise complaints and modify that procedure where necessary.
- Assist the Council in the management of the adopted Noise Management Plan which will address:
- procedures for handling noise issues;
- noise abatement procedures; and
- timely provision of aircraft noise and flight path monitoring information.
- Monitor the results of noise level monitoring and compliance with the noise abatement procedures and the Noise Management Plan.
- Access appropriate technical expertise and guidance as required.