Policy & advocacy

As a peak industry and member organisation, policy and advocacy are at the heart of what we do.

Protecting and advancing the interests of our members who run aviation businesses

Whether it is supporting them with an issue they be having with the CAA, an immigration matter concerning a staff member or student, or working to ensure the sustainability of their operation via a local Council, these and more.

Developing policy positions grounded in a solid evidence base is fundamental to successful advocacy and lobbying

This is why all the submissions we prepare are well researched, consulted upon with members and the wider industry, and where possible include the most relevant and up to data and insight. AIANZ is taken seriously by policymakers because of the quality of the papers and submissions we present.

While preparing and lodging submissions is how we shine a light on our issues, we also use other means to ensure our voice is heard. We have good working relationships with officials in the agencies that have a stake in the success of our industry. We have the ear of politicians and when required to bring urgency to a matter, the AIANZ will use media to get its point across.

Media Enquiries

All media enquiries on AIANZ’s policy and advocacy work should be referred to Chief Executive Simon Wallace using our contact form or call 0274 607 701.

AVIATION INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION NZ

\'STRATEGY ON A PAGE\' 2026-2028

Our Purpose

AIANZ exists to support members, communicate clearly what we stand for, and provide genuine, robust scrutiny of government agencies and decisions-acting consistently and transparently.

Winning aspiration

To be the voice of New Zealand\’s commercial aviation industry, delivering value, advocacy, and resilience for our members while supporting a safe, sustainable, and globally competitive aviation sector.

Where we will play

NZ commercial aviation across commercial airlines, general aviation, maintenance, repair and overhaul organisations (MROs), training organisations, aviation support sectors as well as serving corporate and individual members and allied stakeholders.

Membership value & engagement

AIANZ will strengthen the member experience by delivering high-quality, relevant, and practical value across all touchpoints.

Our focus is on fostering connection, improving access to insights, and offering services that directly support members\’ operational and strategic needs.

Focus areas are:

Training and insights to keep members informed, skilled, and future-ready

Networking opportunities that build relationships across the commercial aviation system

Advisory support to assist members in navigating industry challenges

Annual Conference and events that drive knowledge-sharing and collaboration

Regular e-communications to ensure members receive timely updates and industry information

Advocacy, policy & influence

AIANZ will continue to strengthen its position as the trusted and authoritative voice of New Zealand\’s commercial aviation sector. 

Through proactive engagement, expert guidance, and credible leadership, we will advocate effectively for members and contribute meaningfully to national aviation policy and public understanding.

Focus areas are:

Influence and lobbying with Government Ministers, MPs, officials, and regulators

Building a strong industry voice across media and public forums

Providing knowledge leadership in safety, compliance, and best-practice guidance

Shaping policy discussions to support a safe, competitive, and sustainable aviation sector

Financial & operational resilience

AIANZ will strengthen its long-term sustainability by building stable revenue streams, investing in modern systems, and enhancing its digital capability.

This focus ensures the organisation remains agile, efficient, and equipped to deliver high-quality services to members.

Focus areas are:

Diversified revenue to reduce reliance on any single funding source

Robust internal systems, including implementation and optimisation of a CRM

Digital innovation to enhance online engagement and streamline member services

Operational discipline to support strong governance and organisational performance