Dunedin Airport's Runway Keel Upgrade has been named Infrastructure Project of the Year at the 2026 NZ Airports Awards, recognising a major runway renewal project delivered overnight while scheduled flights continued operating during the day.

The award was presented at the NZ Airports Hui Gala Awards Dinner in Wellington on Tuesday 20 October 2026.

The project strengthened a critical piece of airport infrastructure, bringing together innovative construction methods, technical expertise, and careful planning to keep the airport operating safely throughout the works.

A major upgrade, delivered overnight

Renewing a runway is a complex job at any airport. Doing it while keeping scheduled passenger services running takes another level of planning, precision, and teamwork.

Over approximately 32 overnight shifts, Dunedin Airport and its project partners renewed the structural core of the runway, completing each shift in time for the runway to safely reopen for morning flights.

Photo: Fulton Hogan – Runway construction was completed over approximately 32 overnight shifts, with the runway safely returned to service for scheduled flights each morning.

Around 14,500 tonnes of high-performance EME2 asphalt were laid during the project, strengthening the runway and providing a more durable foundation for future renewal.

The work was carefully coordinated around daily airport operations, including delayed flights. On one occasion, an entire overnight shift was suspended to allow an emergency air ambulance operation.

Dunedin Airport GM Operations and Infrastructure Nick Rodger says the award reflects the contribution of everyone involved.

“Our runway is essential to the connections our region relies on. Delivering this work while keeping scheduled services operating took careful planning, technical expertise and a shared commitment from everyone involved.”

Innovation and teamwork recognised

The project brought together Dunedin Airport, Fulton Hogan, AECOM, and TDZ, combining technical expertise with innovative construction methods.

A purpose-built mobile asphalt plant was established on-site to support consistent asphalt quality, reduce transport distances, and minimise construction risks.

Advanced quality assurance systems and collaborative delivery practices also helped the team complete the work safely and efficiently within the limited overnight construction windows.

Photo: Fulton Hogan – The Runway Keel Upgrade brought together Dunedin Airport, Fulton Hogan, AECOM, and TDZ to deliver a complex infrastructure project.

Chris Jones, Dunedin Regional Manager at Fulton Hogan, says the project demonstrates the value of working together.

“This project shows what can be achieved through strong collaboration. Together with Dunedin Airport, AECOM and TDZ, we delivered a complex runway upgrade while keeping the airport operating every day. We're proud to have helped strengthen a critical regional asset for the years ahead.”

Strengthening a vital connection for the lower South

Dunedin Airport plays an important role in connecting people, businesses, and communities across the lower South.

The Runway Keel Upgrade has strengthened a critical piece of airport infrastructure while allowing airlines and customers to continue travelling with minimal disruption throughout construction.

“This award belongs to a team that understood the importance of getting the runway safely back into service every morning. Their work has strengthened a critical regional asset for the years ahead,” says Nick.

The national recognition celebrates not only the engineering achievement, but also the teamwork and commitment required to deliver it safely in a working airport environment.

Article cover photo: NZ Airports Awards 2026 – Dunedin Airport staff being presented with award: Georgina Bojanich, Beca (award Sponsor); Stu Casey, Head of Project Delivery; Nick Rodger, GM Operations and Infrastructure