Effective 30 June 2018, the merger of Westland District Council’s existing council-controlled organisations (CCOs), Hokitika Airport Limited (HAL) and Westland District Property Limited (WDPL), was formally implemented. The newly established entity now operates as Destination Westland Limited. As a commercially focused organisation, Destination Westland has undergone restructuring to assume additional management responsibilities previously overseen by the Westland District Council. To enhance operational efficiency, clarify roles and responsibilities, and ensure alignment with the objectives outlined in the Company’s Statement of Intent, distinct departments have been established.

Destination Westland operates Hokitika Airport, which is the principal airport on the West Coast. Air New Zealand is the main carrier into the airport on a twice-daily basis from Christchurch. This acts as a gateway for tourists arriving to the West Coast and also as a hub for short-term business travellers from Christchurch. Destination Westland also operates the heliport in Franz Josef.

In addition, Destination Westland manages some of the Council’s property portfolio, previously overseen by Westland District Property Limited. This includes the sale and leasing of property; managing the leasing and occupation of mining rights; management of Pensioner Housing, West Coast Wilderness Trail, and Council’s events portfolio, including the Hokitika Wildfoods Festival.