Christchurch Airport has released its annual financial results, with increased dividend reflecting a surge in international traffic.
The results show that the airport’s operating revenue has increased by 15 per cent since FY23, with a total of $233.1 million, with the underlying operating profit after tax totalling at $41.8 million, up 37 per cent. The airport’s total assets amount to $2.36 billion, and the total declared annual dividend is $37.6 million, an increase of $10 million compared to the previous year.
The airport saw 6.25 million passengers, an increase of 5 per cent when comparing domestic passengers of the previous year, and an increase of 33 per cent when considering international.
“This strong trading performance is a clear reflection of Christchurch Airport’s well-executed intergenerational strategy,” said Board Chair Sarah Ottrey. “By concentrating on growing a diversified business of planes plus passengers plus property, we are delivering a growing and consistent revenue stream.”
In sustainability news, Christchurch Airport is constructing Kowhai Park solar farm in partnership with Contact Energy and Lightsource bp, a 230-hectare area that will generate enough green energy to power 36,000 homes. It will be operational by Q2 2026. The airport is the first in the Southern hemisphere to reach Airport Carbon Accreditation Level 5 and provides over twenty grants to local initiatives, participates in community food recycling programmes and repurposed over 8.5 tonnes of furniture and fittings.
The airport will also be upgrading its terminal to include twelve new food and beverage outlets, seating areas, improved layouts, and a children’s play area. Lease occupancy is currently at 96 per cent, and currently holds over 250 businesses with more than 7000 employees.
“The launch of United Airlines new direct service to San Francisco, the return of China Southern and Cathay Pacific, along with increased international capacity from Air New Zealand, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and Fiji Airways, has cemented Christchurch Airport’s position as the most important gateway to the South Island,” said CEO Justin Watson. “With new infrastructure such as Te Pae, Riverside, The Terrace and cruise facilities, the city has once again risen to the top of highly attractive destinations for both business and for recreation.”
Photo: Christchurch Airport
