Private Jet Trio Lands in Hawke’s Bay

Key Takeaways:

• Hawke’s Bay is experiencing a significant increase in interest from high-net-worth individuals from Asia for holiday trips.
• Air Napier’s international Customs service is a major draw for these individuals, offering a seamless and luxurious experience.
• The region is expected to see a significant economic boost from these high-value visitors, with potential benefits for local businesses and contractors.
• Air Napier’s private jet offering includes door-to-door service, champagne on arrival, and a catered spread.
• The airport’s Customs-controlled area clearance is expected to increase tourism revenue and business opportunities in Hawke’s Bay.

Introduction to Hawke’s Bay Tourism
Hawke’s Bay is experiencing a surge in interest from high-net-worth individuals from Asia, with many choosing the region as their holiday destination. According to Shah Aslam, these individuals "fit in really well" and are "incredible for the region" in terms of the money they spend. The fact that they are choosing Hawke’s Bay over other destinations across seven continents is a testament to the region’s appeal. Aslam attributes the success of attracting these high-net-worth individuals to the involvement of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers with the international Rosewood group, which has been a game-changer for the region.

The Role of Air Napier
Air Napier is playing a significant role in attracting high-net-worth individuals to Hawke’s Bay, thanks to its international Customs service. The airline is a fully operational fixed base operations (FBO) centre, providing private plane charters and 24-hour service. In 2024, Air Napier was granted clearance for a Customs-controlled area (CCA) and its own private terminal, which has enabled it to offer a seamless and luxurious experience for its high-value clients. The airline’s private jet offering includes door-to-door service, champagne on arrival, and a catered spread, making it an attractive option for those who value convenience and luxury.

Economic Benefits
The economic benefits of Air Napier’s private jet offering are significant, with the potential to increase tourism revenue and business opportunities in Hawke’s Bay. According to Shah Aslam, one high-value jet can be as valuable to the economy as two boatloads of cruise passengers. The region is expected to see a significant boost from these high-value visitors, with potential benefits for local businesses and contractors. Aslam notes that the focus of tourism in Hawke’s Bay is often on hordes of cruise passengers, but the high-net-worth individuals arriving by private jet are a significant contributor to the visitor economy.

Air Napier’s Facilities and Services
Air Napier’s facilities and services are designed to provide a seamless and luxurious experience for its high-value clients. The airline uses two rooms during its new international offering, one of which handles bags and checks luggage, while the other is for any other Customs business and paperwork. The arrival lounge and car service are also available, and guests can be out and ready to go in under 10 minutes. According to Arsel Aslam, "seamlessness is part of the package" for these high-net-worth individuals, who value their time and expect a high level of service.

Future Plans and Expectations
Air Napier is expected to play an increasingly important role in attracting high-net-worth individuals to Hawke’s Bay, with the airport’s Customs-controlled area clearance expected to increase tourism revenue and business opportunities in the region. According to Nick Flack, Hawke’s Bay Airport chief executive, there were 95 private charters into Napier in 2025, and the airport is expected to see a significant increase in private jet traffic in the coming years. Aslam notes that the focus is on continuing to improve services and offerings, with the goal of making Hawke’s Bay a premier destination for high-net-worth individuals. With its luxurious facilities and seamless services, Air Napier is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market and bring significant economic benefits to the region.