International flights to start from Rotorua

International flights in and out of Rotorua Airport could start by the middle of next year.

Rotorua Regional Airport Company chairman Neil Oppatt said a 150m runway extension was given the go-ahead yesterday by the town's district council.

The extension would be at the northern end of the runway with tenders going out by Christmas.

Mr Oppatt said aircraft were moving away from the present 737 300s to A320s, which had more powerful engines and need a shorter runway for take off.

He said he hoped chartered international flights between Rotorua and Australia would start in June.

- DAILY POST (ROTORUA)