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A part-time job in the airport bookshop has launched a promising aviation career for Hamilton Airport’s 28-year-old Karen Wilson, who has been named Emerging Leader of the Year at the 2025 New Zealand Airport Awards.
The award recognises Wilson’s significant contribution to the sector and caps a five-year journey at Hamilton Airport — a long way from her original plan to finish a university degree and become a geography teacher.
“I literally had a job at the bookshop to help fund my study and then applied for the receptionist job when it came up. It was my first real job interview and I remember turning bright red whenever I was asked a question,” Wilson says.
“That job as receptionist gave me a front-row seat into how the airport worked and I was absolutely hooked. I love working in the sector, I love the people I work with and I love the variety. We’re in such an exciting growth period in Hamilton and there are so many opportunities.”
Hamilton Airport chief executive Mark Morgan says the award is well-deserved.
“In the five years Karen has been with us, she’s been extraordinary, so we’re really thrilled for her.
“She started part-time in the bookshop, became a full-time receptionist in 2020 and, in 2022, became operations co-ordinator — a role she’s grown and made her own.
“We’re a small team and Karen’s role is significant. She leads a team of 20, develops and drives major initiatives, manages food and beverage outlets, is the single point of contact for all private jet movements and co-ordinates emergency exercises — there’s not much she can’t turn her hand to.
“Karen has a quiet confidence and delivers huge impact. She’s been responsible for some big initiatives, and it’s fantastic to see her recognised nationally at such an early stage in her career.”
Wilson’s success was one of two Hamilton Airport accolades announced at last night’s event. The airport also won Medium Airport Infrastructure Project of the Year for the refurbishment of its international terminal.
The 12-month project, originally scheduled for 24 months, was completed on time and on budget. It involved collaboration with seven border agencies and marked the re-emergence of Hamilton as an international airport and gateway to the central North Island.
“From an empty shell, we created a fully equipped international facility in record time. We wove in cultural elements, showcased the Mighty Waikato, created more than 300 extra car parks and ensured our airport is set up to grow in the future. It’s a project I’m particularly proud of, so it was great to see that recognised as well,” Morgan says.
