Invercargill's airport terminal is to be renamed in honour of the city's former longstanding mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt.

Shadbolt was mayor of Invercargill from 1993 – 1995, and 1998 – 2022.

He was also a director of the airport during his time as mayor, and a leading proponent in extending Invercargill Airport’s runway to ensure it was suitable for international and larger aircraft.

In 2019 Shadbolt received a knighthood for his service to the Invercargill community.

Invercargill City Council (ICC) Mayor Nobby Clark said Sir Tim had, without a doubt, raised the profile of Invercargill nationally and had championed a variety of causes that propelled the city forward.

“Sir Tim’s contribution to Invercargill is undeniable."

An artist's impression of how the renamed Invercargill Airport terminal might look. Photo: Supplied

"I’m pleased we were able to honour him in a way that suitably reflects his long-lasting legacy to our community,” Clark said.

Invercargill Airport Chief Executive Stuart Harris said the former mayor was a highly-recognised figure within New Zealand, known for his commitment to Invercargill.

That made naming the airport terminal in his honour, and welcoming guests to the Sir Tim Shadbolt Terminal at Invercargill, a fitting tribute.

“Sir Tim was a larger-than-life character and he was an absolute champion for the city of Invercargill."

"We are pleased to be part of the city’s tribute to his service to our community,” Harris said.

Plans had not been finalised, but proposed changes at the airport included signs that read Sir Tim Shadbolt Terminal, as well as storytelling signage detailing Sir Tim’s background and input to both the airport and the city of Invercargill.

The ICC is the majority shareholder of Invercargill Airport.