Nelson Airport and Nelson Golf Club resolve Project 2-Zero appeal

2025-12-09

Nelson Airport and the Nelson Golf Club have come to an agreement that resolves the golf club’s appeal against the airport’s Project 2-Zero planning framework. As a result, the Nelson Golf Club has withdrawn its appeal to the Environment Court.

Nelson Airport chief executive Brendan Cook said the two organisations had worked together constructively to address the golf club’s main concerns with Project 2-Zero, which enables a future airport runway extension to the north and would require the airport to purchase golf club land.

“This agreement confirms our commitment to supporting the golf club to adapt when the time comes to extend our runway, including working together to consider the options for a reconfiguration of the golf course. We’re looking forward to working collaboratively with the club so we can both continue to operate successfully.”

Brendan said the future runway extension was still 10 – 15 years away. “The planning we’re undertaking now is to make sure the airport can continue to meet our region’s needs for strong air connections with the rest of the country for a long time to come. A recent Economic Impact Assessment estimates the airport’s contribution to regional GDP will be $2.5 billion over the next 10 years, so it’s absolutely vital we maintain and grow those connections for the benefit of the entire region.”

Nelson Golf Club President Tony Rowe said the club was pleased to be able to withdraw its appeal. “We’ve worked hard to protect our members’ long-term interests, and this agreement is the result of extensive discussions and negotiation to ensure the continued viability of an 18-hole Championship course for Nelson.

“The course is the only tournament championship course in the region and is an important recreational facility for Nelson-Tasman.”

The agreement provides for the airport and golf club to work together on a reconfiguration plan for the golf course utilising Nelson Airport land on the coastal side of the airport precinct. It ensures both the club’s desire to retain an 18-hole Championship course and the airport’s safety, operational and regulatory requirements are taken into account.

Nelson Airport will give the golf club five years’ advance notice of its intention to extend the runway, to provide plenty of time for the club to consider its options and plan for the changes. The agreement means there is just one outstanding appeal on Project 2-Zero remaining.