Gisborne Airport

Gisborne Airport is not just a transport hub, but a true landmark that can surprise even experienced travellers. It is one of the few airports in the world where an active railway line intersects the main runway, creating a unique scenario where planes and trains literally give way to one another. Located in the region that is the first in the world to welcome the sunrise, this airport serves as a welcoming aerial gateway to the picturesque east coast of New Zealand and the Tairāwhiti region, which is rich in Maori culture.

Features and Highlights of the Airport

The main "highlight" of Gisborne Airport is undoubtedly the Palmerston North — Gisborne railway line, which crosses runway 14/32. Although regular train services are currently limited, seeing the tracks intersect with the runway asphalt is a rare and memorable experience for any aviation enthusiast. Controllers here manage not only air traffic but also ground traffic, making the airport's operations unique.

Beyond its exotic infrastructure, the airport boasts a new modern terminal opened in recent years. The building was designed with a focus on sustainability and is richly decorated with design elements reflecting the cultural heritage of the local Maori tribes. The terminal is distinguished by a high level of comfort, compactness, and thoughtful layout: from the moment of entry to boarding, the passenger spends minimal time. It is also worth noting the convenient location — just a 5-minute drive from the city centre, making arrival and departure as quick and comfortable as possible.

For the most up-to-date information regarding your flight, schedule, or airport services, it is recommended to contact the official channels directly. Below are the contact details for Gisborne Airport.

• Official Website: gisborneairport.co.nz
• Information Desk Phone: +64 6 867 5249
• Address: Aerodrome Road, Gisborne 4071, New Zealand
• Email: info@gisborneairport.co.nz
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on its official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline you travelled with directly. Airline contacts are usually listed on your boarding pass or their official website.
• Passenger Support Service: For general support and answers to questions, you can use the airport's main phone number or email address.

Getting to Gisborne Airport (GIS) from the city centre is quite simple thanks to its close proximity — just a few kilometres from the central districts. A car journey usually takes no more than 5–10 minutes, making it one of the most accessible regional airports in New Zealand. Here are the main ways to get to the airport.

Taxis, Shuttles, and Ridesharing
The most convenient and popular method is a taxi or a pre-booked shuttle. Several local taxi companies serve the city of Gisborne and its surroundings. A trip from the city centre will be quick and will cost approximately 15–25 New Zealand Dollars (NZD). Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are also available in the city. Shared-ride shuttles can be a more economical option if you are travelling alone — the cost of the trip will be about 10–15 NZD per person, but they must be booked in advance.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to explore this picturesque region, renting a car is an excellent solution. Many major rental companies have counters directly within the airport terminal, allowing you to easily pick up or drop off a vehicle. For those arriving in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided at Gisborne Airport. The first 20 minutes of parking are usually free, which is convenient for quickly dropping off or meeting passengers. The cost of long-term parking is approximately 15 NZD per day, making this option affordable for extended trips.

Public Transport
Direct bus services to the airport may be limited, which is typical for small regional airports. It is recommended to check the schedules and routes of local bus networks in advance to find out about stops nearest to the airport. However, due to the short distance to the city and the availability of other modes of transport, most travellers prefer a taxi or shuttle for greater convenience, especially when carrying luggage.

Gisborne Airport (GIS) is distinguished by its compactness and modern structure, making it very convenient for passengers. It consists of one terminal that serves all domestic flights. The building was recently rebuilt and now represents not only a functional facility but also an architecturally interesting object, with designs incorporating Maori cultural motifs.

The structure of the terminal is extremely simple and intuitive. All key zones are located in one building on a single level, eliminating the need for long walks or the use of transit transport. Airline check-in counters are located immediately at the entrance. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, which leads to a small but cosy departure lounge. The arrival area with a luggage claim belt is also just a few steps from the main exit.

Thanks to the airport's small size and the low volume of flights, all pre-flight procedures, including check-in and security screening, proceed very quickly. Usually, this takes no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

Navigating the terminal will not cause any difficulties, even for those visiting for the first time. All zones are clearly marked with signs. Moving between the check-in area, the departure lounge, and the boarding gate takes just a few minutes on foot. This airport is a fine example of how modern design and thoughtful logistics make travel as comfortable and fast as possible.

The history of Gisborne Airport (GIS) is not just a chronicle of a transport hub's development, but a unique example of engineering ingenuity and adaptation. Located in the city of Gisborne, on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, this airport is famous worldwide for its main feature: an active railway line runs across its runway.

The airport was founded in the 1930s to provide air connectivity to the isolated East Cape region. From the very beginning, planners had to solve a non-trivial task: how to combine a runway with the existing Palmerston North — Gisborne railway line. Instead of moving the tracks, the decision was made to cross them. Thus was born one of the most unusual aviation sites in the world, where aircraft and trains literally have to give way to each other.

For decades, the airport served as an important hub for local airlines, connecting the region with the country's major cities. Its operation has always required impeccable coordination between air traffic controllers and railway services. Flight schedules and train movements are carefully synchronised to ensure safety. This unique operational model has itself become a historical attraction, drawing the attention of aviation enthusiasts from around the globe.

One of the key stages of modernisation was the opening of the new terminal building in 2021. The project was developed in close collaboration with local Iwi (Maori tribes) and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Turanganui-a-Kiwa region. The new terminal not only improved passenger comfort but also became an architectural symbol, harmoniously blended into the landscape and history of this amazing place. Today, Gisborne Airport continues its unique story, remaining the only example of its kind of peaceful coexistence between aviation and railway transport.

Gisborne Airport (GIS) is a modern and cosy regional airport in New Zealand that provides passengers with all essential services for a comfortable journey. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-designed and offers necessary amenities.

Inside the terminal, there is a cafe where you can have a full meal, order beverages, or grab light snacks to go. Although the selection of shops is small, you can purchase souvenirs, press, and essential items here. For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and zones for charging mobile devices are also provided.

There are no separate VIP lounges or business centres at the airport; however, the general waiting area offers comfortable seating for relaxation before a flight. For passengers with small children, there are nursing rooms equipped with changing tables. The terminal is fully adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring barrier-free movement.

Financial services are represented by ATMs, but there are no specialised currency exchange points at the airport — it is better to arrange this in advance. There is no permanent medical centre on the premises, but staff are trained in first aid and can call for medics if necessary. There are no hotels within the airport itself, but a wide selection of accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Gisborne, located just a few minutes' drive away.

Gisborne Airport is a compact regional airport, so the choice of catering establishments is appropriate to its size. All options for a snack or a full meal are concentrated in one place, which is very convenient for passengers. The main and, essentially, the only establishment is the V2 Cafe, located in the main terminal building.

The cafe offers a menu characteristic of cosy establishments in New Zealand. If you are short on time, you can quickly grab excellent coffee (for which the country is famous), fresh pastries, a sandwich, or a muffin. For those who wish to have a more substantial meal while waiting for a flight, V2 Cafe offers hot dishes, such as classic New Zealand meat pies, soups of the day, and various salads. It is an ideal place for both a quick snack and a relaxed lunch.

The cafe is located in the public area of the terminal (landside), before security control, so it is accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. The opening hours of the establishment are directly linked to the flight schedule: it opens before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves. Regarding dietary preferences, vegetarian and gluten-free options are usually available in the assortment. Regarding vegan or Halal options, it is best to check directly with the staff. Prices in the cafe are average, typical for airports of this scale in New Zealand.

Travelling through Gisborne Airport is generally easy and hassle-free thanks to its compact size. To make your journey as comfortable as possible, use our tips. Plan to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before your domestic flight departure. This time will be sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing through security control without rushing.

To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. Security control at a regional airport usually moves faster than at major hubs, but standard rules remain in force: be prepared to present electronic devices and liquids separately.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from Gisborne, try to get a window seat. Depending on the direction of flight, you may see picturesque views of the coast or the green hills of the region. A unique feature of this airport is the railway line crossing the runway, so during takeoff or landing, you might witness a rare spectacle.

Liquids in containers of up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag, are permitted in hand luggage. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Be sure to check the current baggage and hand luggage allowances on your airline's website, as they may vary.

If you have a connecting flight, for example, in Auckland or Wellington, allow sufficient time for transit. Consider that you may need to transfer from a domestic terminal to an international one (or vice versa), which requires additional time. When arriving in New Zealand from abroad, remember the strict rules of customs and biosecurity control. Declare all food items, plants, and animal products to avoid heavy fines.

To save money, book flight tickets and airport parking in advance. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security, and light snacks, as the selection in the small terminal may be limited. Travelling with only hand luggage will also help avoid checked baggage fees and save time upon arrival.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. They will provide up-to-date information and explain possible options: rebooking on another flight or providing vouchers for food and accommodation, depending on the length of the delay and the carrier's policies. Keep an eye on updates on the departure boards and in your airline's app.