Wellington Airport seawall becomes first fast-track project approved in Wellington region

Wellington Airport has welcomed fast-track approval for its southern seawall renewal project, which will help protect the airport from the forces of the Southern Ocean. 

“Wellington Airport’s seawalls were constructed starting in 1954, and from that date various improvements and extensions have been added. The southern seawall is now reaching the end of its lifespan and needs a major upgrade,” says Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke. 

“The south end of the airport runway faces directly into the Southern Ocean.  Wave heights in Cook Strait regularly exceed 10 metres and require substantial seawall defences to withstand major weather events. The renewed seawall will protect airport operations for decades to come, so we can continue connecting Wellington to the world. 

“The seawall project is the first in the Wellington region to be granted a fast-track consent. Years of work has gone into planning this project, including optioneering, design, and constructability assessments, and careful consultation with airlines, councils, iwi and local residents. 

“This approval reflects that hard work and we’ll continue to work closely with all of our neighbours and stakeholders throughout the delivery of the project.”  

The project will completely overlay a new seawall over the old one, using large concrete armour units and rock. 

Enabling works are likely to begin this year and construction is planned to begin in the Airport’s 2029-2034 capital planning period, subject to further consultation with airlines. 

More information on the project is available here.