Welcoming Originair to Westport

From 3 January, Originair’s British Aerospace Jetstream aircraft will take to the skies, offering a dependable connection between the Coast and the capital. This vital service strengthens the region’s accessibility, resilience, and enhances opportunities for economic and tourism growth.

Air connectivity plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses, enabling them to maintain and grow relationships with national and international partners. As Buller’s economy continues to expand, the availability of regular, reliable flights is more important than ever. Originair’s new service ensures our region remains open for business and well-positioned for future opportunities.

Tourism in Buller is also on the rise, with visitor numbers steadily increasing. In the year to September 2024, guest nights grew to 327,500, and total tourism expenditure rose by 14.5%, well above the national growth rate of 0.9%. Originair’s new service is set to further enhance this momentum, making it easier for visitors to experience Coast hospitality and immerse themselves in Buller’s untamed natural wilderness.

We also acknowledge the contribution of Sounds Air, which has served the region since 2016. Their dedication ensured that this critical airlink remained intact during challenging times, and we extend our gratitude for their service.

The introduction of Originair marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With larger aircraft and a commitment to growing both business and leisure travel, Originair’s service is well-suited to meet the evolving needs of our community. The success of this service will depend on our collective support. Every booking helps secure the long-term sustainability of the route.

On behalf of Development West Coast, I extend a warm welcome to Originair. We look forward to working with them, Buller District Council, and the Promoting Buller Group to maximise the potential of this essential air link. The Buller is ready to take off—let’s make this connection a success.