Wellington Airport’s next generation logistics hub

Interest is being sought from occupiers for a significant industrial opportunity at Wellington Airport, giving forward‑thinking businesses the chance to secure space within a purpose‑built logistics development designed for modern freight, aviation support, and fast‑moving distribution.

With planning underway and flexibility built into the concept, the proposed Wellington Airport development at Freight Drive in Rongotai offers scale, connectivity, and the ability to tailor space to operational needs.

Located at the southern end of the airport precinct with convenient access via Moa Point Road, the site sits immediately adjacent to the airfield, with the new development offering airside access subject to approval. This proximity provides a strong advantage for businesses that rely on speed, efficiency, and seamless movement of goods, supported by road links into the regional state highway network.

With just under 10,000sqm of proposed space, the facility can accommodate multiple tenancy configurations. Current plans outline five tenancies ranging from approximately 1,000sqm to 3,500sqm, but layouts can be adjusted within reason around structural columns, with larger tenancies and tailored combinations considered.

The proposed facility includes high‑stud warehousing, generous canopies, substantial floor loading capacity, and more than 50 car parks. Sustainability features, including a roof designed for solar, align with Wellington Airport’s development guidelines and its Kaitiakitanga work programme.

Construction is expected to commence next year, with the project delivered through a staged programme to meet occupier demand. The indicative timeline provides for a 2027 construction start, followed by practical completion of Tenancy 1 and Tenancy 2 in 2028, and Tenancies 3–5 in late 2028 – early 2029. This sequencing gives businesses clarity around delivery horizons and the ability to plan future operations with confidence.

Expressions of Interest close on Thursday, 3 September 2026 with Sarah Lyford and Fraser Press of Bayleys Wellington Commercial.

Through this process, Lyford says Wellington Airport is inviting occupiers to share a clear picture of their business, operational needs, and preferred tenancy options.

“Once everything’s in, Wellington Airport may start talking with shortlisted parties to explore fit and move toward formal lease agreements, with each proposal considered on its merits.

“Positioning a business with proximity to air freight and distribution networks is a strategic move and places occupiers right at the centre of Wellington’s air freight network, strengthening their ability to move product quickly.

“Because the project is still in the planning stages, there is genuine flexibility and businesses can influence how the space is shaped to suit their future growth.”

Large‑format industrial options in Wellington’s eastern suburbs are extremely limited, leaving few opportunities for businesses needing substantial warehouse capacity.

“This development provides a meaningful solution for occupiers wanting scale within a tightly-held precinct,” says Lyford.

“With more than 200 flights daily and direct international links to Australia and Fiji, Wellington Airport offers unmatched connectivity for freight forwarders, aviation support services, and logistics operators.

“As the airport expands its role as a key logistics and transport hub, the wider precinct is being reshaped for next‑generation freight and aviation‑support operations.”

Lyford says there’s limited availability of land in the Wellington region for purpose‑built facilities with scale, positioning this development as a highly strategic gateway for exporters and high‑performance industrial operators.

“Businesses that secure space here will be aligning themselves with an airport that is actively expanding its freight capability, so it is a smart long‑term position.”