Daily return flights between Whakatāne and Auckland may finally be on track to resume., writes Kim Webby

There is good news this week for Eastern Bay residents, keen for the resumption of daily return flights between Whakatāne and Auckland.

Air Chatham’s chief executive, Duane Emeny, says the early morning flights to Auckland and early evening return flights to Whakatāne, are expected to resume in April 2026. They have been in hiatus since 2023.

I sought an update from Mr Emeny, when I was frustrated at missing out on a professional workshop in Auckland, because I could not get there and back in a day.

I also could not stay in Auckland overnight because Metallica fans had snapped up every hotel and motel bed available, for the band’s concert the same night.

Mr Emeny said there were still a few hurdles before the April flights re-commence.  

They must acquire the aircraft, which will be a 34-seater Saab 340, and they need to establish crew for the daily return flights.

He said the resumption of the business-friendly commuter service was due to the recent Government announcement of $30 million of concessionary loans for regional airlines.

Air Chathams is nearly ready to apply for a share of the loan funding.

“The funding will enable the airline to restructure debt and invest in aircraft and technical upgrades,” Mr Emeny said.

This comes after what he describes as a few difficult years, which saw him go cap in hand to Whakatāne District Council for support, amid fears that Air Chathams might have to pull out of the Eastern Bay altogether. It had already reduced its schedule in 2023, when it had to retire its 18-seat Metroliners.

In May, the Whakatāne District Council waived airport fees for six months and former mayor Victor Luca wrote to the Government to suggest that it plough two percent of the Government’s Air New Zealand profits, into regional air connectivity.

In September, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced the $30 million concessionary loans for regional airlines.

The red-eye and early evening flights will be welcome news for business travellers.

Mr Emeny said Air Chathams was well aware of the community’s desire that these flights resume, following surveys and discussions with the Chamber of Commerce and large regional businesses.  

As the Ōpōtiki News has already reported, Whakatāne will also be the first to benefit from Air Chathams’ inter-line arrangement with Air New Zealand.

This will see passengers make one booking for travel on Air Chathams to Auckland and onward domestic flights with Air New Zealand.  

With just a few more technical issues to be ironed out, Mr Emeny says the linkage should begin late this year or early next year.

Finally, the beloved Tim Tams will be served on Air Chathams’ red eye and early evening flights and for those travelling onward with Air New Zealand, I can recommend their fudge.