Fresh faces for new flights: Hamilton Airport prepares for take-off with a blessing
Wednesday, 4 June 2025
The atmosphere at Hamilton Airport was electric as the freshly refurbished international terminal was blessed, paving the runway for a new era in air travel for the Waikato.
But for Emii Durham, a newly hired passenger service agent, it was more than just a ceremony - it was the launchpad for her long-awaited return to aviation.
“I was always looking at aviation since working at Jetstar the first time, I’ve always sort of wanted to get back,” said Durham. “So it was like a really cool opportunity.”
Originally from New Plymouth and now a Hamilton local of four years, Durham is one of 60 new airport-based staff ready to welcome international travellers back to the region for the first time in 13 years.
The terminal upgrade, part of a $7 million investment, includes full border control facilities, a duty-free store, café, and a lounge that can flex between domestic and international services.
The highlight of Tuesday’s event was a blessing ceremony held in partnership with mana whenua Ngāti Hauā, recognising the whakapapa of the land and the cultural importance of welcoming manuhiri (visitors) to Aotearoa.
Mark Morgan, Chief Executive of Waikato Regional Airport Ltd, acknowledged the deep connection. “We’ve been on a journey with mana whenua, and I think it’s a nice way to symbolise the importance of international services.”
As the karakia echoed through the terminal, Durham and her fellow recruits stood proudly, representing a diverse cohort from various walks of life. “I've been a stay-at-home mum for about six years,” Durham shared. “Another girl went to tourism school - we all come from different backgrounds.”
For Durham, this role brings everything full circle. She first worked for Jetstar seven years ago, shortly after completing hotel management studies. “It was only for a year, but I really enjoyed it. It was a bit of a surprise when I applied for this - but it’s perfect. I drop the kids off, pick them up, and still be good.”
The excitement was contagious among the new hires, who just completed three weeks of training. “It’s so new with the international (service) at the moment, so it’s a bit different,” she said, grinning. “We’re off to Christchurch and Wellington today to do some practical training and actually check in customers… hopefully we’ll have a bit of experience under our belts.”
The first Jetstar flight from Sydney will land in Hamilton on June 16, with return services to the Gold Coast also launching that week. It marks the first trans-Tasman service since 2012, when Virgin’s final Brisbane flight left the runway.
Ben Langley, speaking at the blessing, captured the moment’s emotional weight. “It’s been a long time coming, but it’s been well earned. Thirteen years ago, international services ended - and the region hasn’t forgotten. It’s been on everybody’s lips.”
That memory fuelled a behind-the-scenes effort spanning months of negotiations, infrastructure work, and inter-agency collaboration. As Langley put it, “It’s not just about bricks and mortar. It’s all of the people that have had little touches in this process.”
One of those people is Chris De Wattignar, head of aviation security for the Civil Aviation Authority. “We had 400 people apply,” he said. “We ran 100 through assessment centres and now have 30 new staff from the local community. That’s a great success.”