The decisions were endorsed by Council at its meeting yesterday, Tuesday 22 September 2026.
The work programme for Tauranga Airport will look at whether it would benefit from a more specialised governance and operating model. It will assess a range of options, including retaining the current model, establishing a trust, creating a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO), or establishing a Council-Controlled Trading Organisation (CCTO). Staff will also investigate options that could provide flexibility for future capital raising while retaining Council control.
Tauranga Mayor Mahé Drysdale says the review is about ensuring the airport has the best operating model for the future.
"I want to be clear that the airport is not for sale. That’s not the intention here. This decision is about undertaking further analysis of the governance and delivery options available to us,” says Mayor Mahé.
“As we look at future options, it is prudent to consider all options available, including an option to sell a minority stake at some point in the future, however, any decision to sell a minority stake will not be considered as part of this process. That would be a separate decision that would need to go out for further consultation.”
As part of the process, Council will establish an Airport Working Group comprising two elected members and one mana whenua representative. The group will provide oversight and guidance throughout the options development process, including stakeholder engagement, due diligence and assessment of potential governance models. It will not be a decision-making body, with any decisions to go back to Council.
Staff will report back to Council with the outcomes of the analysis, recommendations from the Airport Working Group, and a preferred option, along with any alternative options considered.
Tauranga Airport is a strategic infrastructure asset that is currently operated as a standalone Council activity and does not receive ratepayer funding.
Bay Venues Limited (BVL) manages many of Tauranga's key community facilities, including aquatic centres, sport and recreation facilities, community centres, halls and event venues.
At yesterday’s meeting, Council agreed to undertake a review of future ownership, governance and delivery options for community assets including BVL's assets and activities. The work will review the current structure and look for any possible improvements.
The Council approved a work plan to inform options to be consulted on through the Long-term Plan 2027-37 process before any final decisions are made.