THE New Zealand Government has committed TOP$4.2 million pa'anga grant to upgrade Kaufana Airport in 'Eua during a grant agreement ceremony signed in Nuku'alofa on Thursday,
September 1.

The New Zealand High Commissioner in Tonga HE Dr Jonathan Austin signed the grant agreement with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Hon Samiu Vaipulu, at the Ministry of Transport office.

The project will develop a new runway pavement extending the runway llength from the current 700 to 800mts, along with new taxi and apron earthworks. The current terminal would be demolished and reconstructed as well as putting up a new airport fence.

Dr Austin said New Zealand has a long history of providing support to 'Eua. The project is a continuation of that longstanding engagement and is also a demonstration of our commitment to growing Tonga's tourism industry, he highlighted.

He added that 'Eua is a unique and interesting eco-tourist destination. We want to make it safe and easy for people to visit as well as for locals to travel to Tongatapu.

New Zealand firm Fulton Hogan will carry out the work in conjunction with local contractors after winning an open competitive tender process.

The Deputy Prime Minister thanked the Government and people of New Zealand for giving Tonga this huge amount of money for the extension and renovation of the runaway. This is a great development for the people of 'Eua as it will improve its tourism sector significantly, he added.

It is understood that the current runway is currently being serviced by an eight-seater aircraft. But after the new runway is completed it could accommodate a larger aircraft such as a 40-seater.

The work starts next month and should be completed by early 2012. The airport will remain in use during the upgrade.