More long-haul widebody planes will be able to operate at Wellington Airport following upgraded safety zones on its runway.

It could mean Wellington could see direct flights to the United States and Asia for the first time ever.

The energy-absorbing blocks at each end of the runway are part of a $500 million upgrade plan announced by the airport today, which includes terminal upgrades and community areas on airport-owned land near Lyall Bay. 

Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke joined Nick Mills to discuss the plans. 

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