Hawke’s Bay Airport opens new forecourt

A shining new gateway to the region was unveiled this morning, with Hawke’s Bay Airport officially opening its new forecourt. It’s the final touch for the airport’s new terminal and will provide visitors with a memorable first impression of Hawke’s Bay.

The forecourt was designed as a reflection of the Hawke’s Bay region and incorporates gabion baskets, macrocarpa seating, and kuaka sculptures atop pou situated in the native garden beds. A 20-metre wide canopy is a grand welcome statement, providing shade and shelter to all those coming and going from the airport. A shared space, the forecourt has been designed for both pedestrian and vehicle movements, allowing taxis and ground transport companies to pick up and drop off passengers right outside the terminal doors.

The forecourt was designed by local architects Mauvan Scott, with renowned artist Jacob Scott instrumental in creating the cultural designs of the space, which link to the stories carved within the terminal. The carved panels on the ceiling of the canopy represent flight formations of the kuaka, cosmology, navigation and working together to achieve a common goal. Outside the main entrance, a grand pou symbolises the prosperity and growth of the land and people of Hawke's Bay.

The newly completed area was blessed by Mana Ahuriri hapū representatives early this morning, with a karakia led by kaumatua Matiu Eru.

Hawke’s Bay Airport CEO Rob Stratford says it’s great to see the project come together. “In terms of the redevelopment of the airport terminal, it’s the final piece of the puzzle so it’s a major milestone for us. “It’s an incredible example of thoughtful design and culture coming together to create a real tribute to our region. We’re proud to have such a fitting welcome for our visitors and for the people of Hawke’s Bay.”

Mr Stratford says he is grateful for the patience passengers have shown during the forecourt’s construction. “It’s been a long road, and we’re thankful to our passengers for their understanding in the face of disruption. The end result has been worth the wait.”

As part of the forecourt development, the airport has future-proofed the road network to allow for licence plate recognition technology to be installed. “This advanced parking system, along with of number of other projects planned to take place in the next 12 months will make the customer experience at the airport even better in the months and years ahead.”

24 November 2022

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