Airport parking upgrades bring more online options

A major upgrade of Nelson Airport’s parking systems will introduce online booking and payment options, as well as ticketless entry. Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook says the improvements are designed to modernise the airport’s systems, providing easier and more convenient options for customers, alongside parking discounts of up to 30% for booking parking in advance.

“We’re investing in new technology including upgraded licence plate recognition cameras, new pay machines, and online booking and payment platforms for customers. We’re also going ticketless which will make entry and exit easier, as well as being kinder to the environment.”

The changes come into effect on 1 December 2025, although the online booking platform will be available sooner for those keen to make bookings for December. Brendan said there would also be changes to the payment framework for the airport’s Long Stay Carpark, with the removal of an hourly rate in this carpark.

Airport parking upgrades bring more online options

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“The Long Stay Carpark is intended for those parking with us for an extended period of time – five days or more. At day five, a significant discount kicks in, with the daily price dropping to $7 a day. To get the best available rates, people should use the Main Carpark for stays of less than five days, and the Long Stay Carpark if parking for five days plus.”

Brendan said the first 15 minutes of airport parking remained free. There would be a modest increase in drive-up rates for airport parking, which will go up 50c an hour and $2 a day, he said. 

“We’re making a significant investment in our systems, which has required an increase in our standard drive-up prices. We’re very aware of the price pressures the entire community is under at the moment, and we encourage people to take advantage of the cheaper prices that are available by booking and paying in advance. The further in advance you book, the better the discount – with rates cheaper than our current pricing available.”

Brendan also reiterated the alternative transport options available to and from the airport, including the eBus and affordable ride-share services such as Uber.