Tim Shadbolt

Sir Tim Shadbolt: The Man, The Myth, The Airport!

Invercargill Airport has been renamed in honour of the legendary Sir Tim Shadbolt! Discover how this local icon left his mark on his beloved city!

Invercargill, the southern gem of New Zealand, has just celebrated a momentous occasion that will undoubtedly warm the hearts of its citizens. The terminal at Invercargill Airport has officially been renamed after none other than the legendary Sir Tim Shadbolt, a name synonymous with leadership, community spirit, and a dash of Quirky Kiwi humour. As an iconic figure in the region, Sir Tim's contributions as mayor for eight extraordinary terms spanning thirty-one years have reshaped the face of Invercargill, making this tribute a fitting reminder of his unwavering commitment to his hometown.

On Wednesday afternoon, family and friends gathered to honour Sir Tim in a ceremony that featured heartfelt messages and stories of his remarkable journey. Among the attendees were his partner Asha Dutt and their son Declan, who took pride in watching a beloved family figure receive such a public honor. The airport terminal will soon showcase storytelling signage detailing the influence Sir Tim has had on the area, ensuring that both locals and visitors will appreciate the legacy paved by a man who put Invercargill on the map.

It's no surprise that many see this renaming as a 'fitting tribute'. Not only has Sir Tim been an internationally recognized politician, but he has also been a director of the airport during his time as mayor. His influence extended across various facets of life in Invercargill, helping to shape a community that embraces innovation while retaining its rich heritage. Mayor Nobby Clark echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of honoring such a revered figure who truly understood the pulse of the community.

In addition to the airport terminal rename, locals can also look forward to the storytelling signage that will soon grace the terminal walls, adding a touch of personality to their travels. Curiously enough, did you know that Sir Tim was also a passionate advocate for public art? He once famously suggested that “public art makes local life much better,” proving that beauty can indeed thrive anywhere! And if you think it's just an airport terminal getting a makeover, wait till you hear about the fish & chips shop down the street that will soon feature 'Tim's Tasty Chips'! Sir Tim's legacy has clearly cast a long and humorous shadow over Invercargill, ensuring that the stories told today are just as vibrant as the one he crafted for so many years.