Queenstown Airport (ZQN) has formalised a partnership with the Queenstown Trails Trust, committing NZ$20,000 (approx. £15,000) annually to support the development of the region's extensive trail network. The agreement, announced by both organisations, underscores the airport's ambition to become the world's most bike-friendly gateway and aligns with broader sustainability goals for the Whakatipu basin.
Strategic alignment with destination management
The funding will be directed towards the ongoing expansion and maintenance of the Queenstown Trails, which currently span over 200 kilometres across Central Otago. Shane O'Hare, Chief Executive of Queenstown Airport, described the trails as an "incredible asset" and expressed enthusiasm for their growth. "This partnership is a natural extension of our commitment to sustainable tourism and community wellbeing," O'Hare said. "By investing in the trails, we are not only enhancing the visitor experience but also providing safe, active transport options for our staff and travellers."
Mark 'Willy' Williams, Chief Executive of the Queenstown Trails Trust, highlighted the airport's role as a crucial gateway for cycle tourism. "The airport is the first and last impression for many visitors, and this partnership allows us to connect them directly to the trail network from the terminal," Williams noted. "We are thrilled to celebrate the world-class trails and foster a deeper connection with the stunning landscapes of Central Otago."
Beyond funding: volunteering and promotion
The collaboration extends beyond financial support. Queenstown Airport staff will be offered volunteering opportunities to assist with trail maintenance and events, strengthening the bond between the airport and the local community. The partnership will also focus on promoting the trails to arriving passengers, encouraging them to explore the region by bike or on foot.
This initiative is part of a broader trend in the aviation industry towards integrating sustainability and community engagement into airport operations. Similar efforts have been seen at other gateways, such as Mactan-Cebu Airport's carbon accreditation, which highlights the growing importance of environmental stewardship in airport management.
Supporting regional tourism goals
The partnership also aligns with Queenstown's destination management objectives, which prioritise sustainable growth and the preservation of the region's natural beauty. By promoting active travel, the airport and the trails trust aim to reduce reliance on motorised transport, thereby lowering carbon emissions and alleviating congestion in the town centre.
Queenstown Airport has been proactive in its sustainability efforts, and this collaboration is expected to serve as a model for other airports seeking to engage with local communities and promote eco-friendly tourism. The airport's commitment to becoming bike-friendly is a unique selling point that could attract a niche segment of cycle tourists, a market that has seen significant growth in recent years.
For travel professionals, this partnership signals the increasing importance of sustainable transport options in destination marketing. As more travellers seek authentic and environmentally responsible experiences, airports and tourism boards are recognising the value of investing in infrastructure that supports active travel.
Queenstown Trails Trust, a registered charity, has been instrumental in developing the region's trail network, which includes iconic routes such as the Queenstown Hill Walkway and the Lake Wakatipu Track. The new funding will enable the trust to continue its work, ensuring that the trails remain in top condition for both locals and visitors.
The announcement was celebrated with a bike ride by O'Hare and Williams, symbolising the partnership's spirit. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future, with O'Hare stating, "We look forward to seeing the trails expand and to welcoming more cyclists to Queenstown."
This development comes at a time when the travel industry is increasingly focused on sustainability. Airports worldwide are exploring ways to reduce their environmental footprint, and partnerships like this one demonstrate how collaboration between aviation and local tourism bodies can yield tangible benefits.
