Council supports future for aviation training in Whanganui

Published on 21 August 2025

Whanganui District Council and Whanganui District Council Holdings Limited (Holdings) are pursuing next steps to secure the continuation of an international pilot academy in Whanganui, following a comprehensive review of options.

Holdings is now progressing negotiations with New Zealand’s largest international flight school, Oamaru-based New Zealand Airline Academy (NZAAL), to expand its operations into Whanganui.

Holdings chair, Carolyn van Leuven says, “We acknowledge the ongoing uncertainty for staff, student and the Whanganui community during this challenging period. With NZICPA now in a position to train students, the two schools are looking to agree a pathway forward that offers the best outcome possible in the circumstances for staff, students and the local economy. These discussions are ongoing, but we expect to be able to share more information soon.

“Any deal will be subject to conditions, including approval from regulators and satisfaction of due diligence requirements for both parties,” says van Leuven.

To ensure NZICPA can continue operations during negotiations, the council has endorsed the appointment of an interim chief executive, Scott McKenzie.

NZICPA director, Craig Compain says McKenzie has led substantial changes at the academy, where he has been engaged as an advisor since a CAA review in May.

Significant improvements have been made to address the concerns raised by the CAA, he says, “including full cultural, financial and maintenance reviews, the appointment of several senior positions, and better alignment of resourcing with requirements.

“Under Scott’s leadership, the NZICPA team has made significant strides in enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening their commitment to safety and professional excellence. Scott’s expertise and proactive approach will guide NZICPA in delivering pilot training and maintaining industry standards in the months ahead.”

The council has also approved Holdings to continue to provide short-term working capital to NZICPA for up to 90 days.

Carolyn van Leuven says, “This is expected to be covered within existing approved funding and Holdings’ own income, including the sale of assets such as aircraft that are surplus to requirements. We want to ensure that NZICPA can continue to operate through the transition period over the coming weeks and months to enable the best outcome for all involved.”

Whanganui District councillors met with NZAAL’s chief executive and chief flying instructor on Tuesday this week.

Mayor Andrew Tripe says, “It was exciting to hear about the growth and philosophy of NZAAL and their strong interest in Whanganui.

“Holdings and NZICPA have brought us a pathway forward that, if successful, will see the continuation of Whanganui as a strong base for commercial pilot training. We want to support them to work through this, while also minimising further financial exposure for the council.

“I know that this has been a difficult situation for both the Holdings and NZICPA boards, as well as the staff and students at NZICPA,” says Mayor Andrew. “A tremendous amount of work has gone into getting to this point and there is more to do, but the focus is on achieving a positive long-term outcome for all.”