Written by Tanisha Cardozo
On the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island lies a small but extraordinary airport that defies the typical rules of air travel. Welcome to Gisborne Airport—where aircraft and trains take turns on the same runway.
Unlike conventional airports, Gisborne’s main runway is bisected by the Palmerston North–Gisborne railway line. This rare design makes it one of the only operational airports in the world where train tracks intersect directly with a working runway.
Operations run daily between 6:30 am and 8:30 pm, during which both the airport and the railway remain active. The coordination required is nothing short of meticulous. Airport authorities control railway signals and halt trains when necessary to allow aircraft to land or take off safely. Conversely, if a train is scheduled to cross, planes must wait.
This coexistence between two modes of transportation isn’t just practical—it’s a feat of operational precision. While Tasmania’s Wynyard Airport had a similar feature, it ceased railway operations in 2005, leaving Gisborne as the sole location where this rare setup still functions.
Despite its unusual configuration, Gisborne Airport handles over 60 domestic flights weekly and accommodates more than 150,000 passengers a year. It serves as both a vital regional hub and a quirky destination for aviation and railway enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re flying in or passing through by rail, Gisborne offers more than just stunning coastal views—it offers a rare glimpse at how two forms of transport can seamlessly intersect.
📍 Location: Gisborne, North Island, New Zealand
🚆 Rail Line: Palmerston North–Gisborne
✈️ Flights: 60+ per week
🕒 Operating Hours: 6:30 am – 8:30 pm
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