Aéroport de Paraparaumu (PPQ)

Paraparaumu Airport (IATA: PPQ, ICAO: NZPP) is a regional airport located in Paraparaumu, a town on the Kapiti Coast of New Zealand's North Island. Situated approximately 55 kilometers north of Wellington, the airport primarily serves the greater Wellington region and the Kapiti Coast. Established in the 1930s, Paraparaumu Airport played a pivotal role during World War II as a base for both military training and operations. Post-war, it transitioned into a civil aviation hub, catering to domestic flights and general aviation.

Today, Paraparaumu Airport is a vital regional gateway, connecting the Kapiti Coast with other major New Zealand cities. It boasts a single asphalt runway measuring 1,400 meters in length, accommodating various aircraft sizes typical of regional operations. In recent years, the airport has seen a surge in passenger numbers following the introduction of scheduled commercial flights by Air New Zealand, which operates connections to the country's largest city, Auckland. This has significantly increased the airport's passenger throughput, with tens of thousands of travelers passing through annually.

Despite its relatively modest size, Paraparaumu Airport is well-equipped to handle the demands of both commercial and general aviation. It features essential amenities including a modern terminal building, parking facilities, and car rental services. While the number of airlines operating from Paraparaumu is limited, the airport remains a popular choice for travelers seeking convenient and efficient access to the Kapiti Coast and surrounding regions. As the area's population grows and tourism flourishes, Paraparaumu Airport continues to play an integral role in the local transportation network, offering a blend of historical significance and modern functionality.