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Christchurch Airport has reported revenue and profit growth for the six months to December 31, 2025, driven by expanded air services and continued performance across its commercial and property businesses.
Total revenue increased 10.0 per cent to $132.9 million, while net profit after tax rose 24.2 per cent to $29.5 million compared with the same period last year. The Board declared an interim dividend of $24.1 million, up 13 per cent.
Passenger numbers grew 7.2 per cent to 3.4 million, with international travel increasing 15.2 per cent and domestic passengers up 4.8 per cent.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the result reflects strong demand for travel.
“This is a really pleasing first-half result and it shows the strength of demand for travel and the energy we’re seeing across the business. Passenger numbers are up, our commercial areas are performing well, and our campus continues to attract businesses that want to grow alongside us,” says Justin.
Growth was supported by new and expanded services, including new domestic jet routes to Hamilton from Jetstar and Air New Zealand, increased domestic capacity from Jetstar, and extended summer long-haul services. New trans-Tasman routes to Adelaide and Cairns also contributed to growth.
Commercial performance strengthened following upgrades to food and beverage offerings, alongside improvements to passenger flows, seating areas, bathrooms, car parking technology and ground transport lanes.
“We’re seeing really positive feedback from travellers. The changes we’ve made from park to plane are making a noticeable difference, and that’s flowing through into stronger commercial results,” says Justin.
The airport’s property portfolio maintained 99.2 per cent occupancy. New facilities were completed for DHL and Enatel, and the first stage of a freight apron expansion was delivered. When complete, the expansion will add an area equivalent to six rugby fields to support future air freight growth.
Justin says the developments demonstrate the airport’s wider economic role.
“Developments like the freight apron expansion, DHL and Enatel show how the airport is supporting job creation, innovation and economic resilience for the South Island,” he says.
S&P Global reaffirmed the airport’s A-/stable credit rating during the period.
Board chair Sarah Ottrey says the result reflects disciplined management.
“It’s another strong result that reflects a well-run business and delivers value not just for shareholders, but for the city and region,” says Sarah.
Seventy-five per cent of the dividend will be paid to Christchurch City Holdings Limited, with the remaining 25 per cent to the Crown.
Business Canterbury chief executive Leeann Watson says the performance reinforces the region’s international standing.
“This performance shows the region’s momentum is real and sustained. The airport’s growth strengthens our international reach and credibility,” says Leeann.
Christchurch Airport continues to progress its sustainability programme, targeting zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2035. Emissions have been reduced 92 per cent compared with the 2015 baseline.
In late 2025, the airport hosted New Zealand’s first on-airport manufacturing and transfer of liquid hydrogen. The initiative received the NZ Airports Sustainability Initiative of the Year 2025 award for large airports.
More than 45 per cent of solar panels have been installed at Kōwhai Park, with the 230-hectare solar farm expected to be operational by mid-2026.
