Pupil’s survey gets 10,000 responses

It has been a whirlwind couple of weeks for young aviation enthusiast Benjamin Paterson.

The 13-year-old Taieri College pupil’s survey, aimed at reinstating international flights to and from Dunedin, has received more than 10,000 responses.

Last week, Benjamin, his parents and Dunedin Airport staff had a "very positive" meeting with Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich and Enterprise Dunedin manager John Christie, Mr Radich said.

A follow-up meeting with Benjamin was being organised by airport staff and would also include Business South and University of Otago representatives.

Benjamin Paterson is on a mission to bring back international flights to and from Dunedin. Photo:...
Benjamin Paterson is on a mission to bring back international flights to and from Dunedin. Photo: Peter McIntosh
It was fantastic to see Benjamin’s initiative and the support his survey was receiving, Mr Radich said.

"He’s a real star and I’m hopeful his efforts will encourage ... [airlines] to re-establish an international link to our airport."

Business South said it "goes without saying" that the city’s business community would benefit from international flights resuming.

Benjamin also flew to Christchurch where he was invited by businessman Mike Pero to spend time flying his 737 flight simulator.