RNZAF Base Auckland is a Royal New Zealand Air Force base located near the upper reaches of the Waitematā Harbour in Auckland, New Zealand. The base formerly comprised two separate airfields, Whenuapai and RNZAF Station Hobsonville. Hobsonville was established as a seaplane station in 1928 and was the RNZAF's primary flying boat base in New Zealand until 1967.
History
Construction of Whenuapai as a base for Vickers Wellington bomber aircraft began in 1937, the hangars being built in 1939.[1] Whenuapai was also Auckland's civil international airport from 1945 to 1965. After World War II Auckland became a centre for RNZAF transport and maritime squadrons. RNZAF Station Hobsonville was administratively joined with Whenuapai in 1965 to become RNZAF Base Auckland.[2] Hobsonville subsequently became a grass airfield for No. 3 Squadron RNZAF, which later moved to Ohakea. A New Zealand Army unit comprising various personnel from different regiments as well as the New Zealand Special Air Service were relocated to Papakura Military Camp in 2003. [further explanation needed]
Whenuapai was expected to close as well, with the Labour Government attempting to centralise the RNZAF at Ohakea.[3] Infrastructure company Infratil and Waitakere City Council studied the feasibility of developing Whenuapai into a commercial airport if the RNZAF moved to Ohakea.[4] In 2009, the National Government overturned the Labour government's decision and decided to retain the air force base at Whenuapai and implemented a reconstruction programme.[5]
A significant reconstruction phase started at RNZAF Base Whenuapai in 2011 and major works were carried out on the main runway, taxiways, and also the relocation of several units from RNZAF Base Hobsonville. Further development ensured that the RNZAF would remain at the present location. A significant government spending programme has been carried out to ensure the present base is brought up to standard.
In 2016 new facilities were under construction to replace those lost with the closure of RNZAF Base Hobsonville or closed due to non-compliance with increased earthquake safety standards introduced following the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. This involves a new gymnasium, accommodation, a 25-metre weapons range, and a medical facility.
Additional funding will also improve areas to the flight line and aprons after a $30 million upgrade on the main runway and taxiways was completed in 2012.
A member of the RNZAF Parachute Training and Support Unit trails the air force flag during the air show at Whenuapai in March 2009.A No. 40 Squadron Boeing 757-200 in 2006
