Auckland International Airport Ltd has been facing an objection over its purchase of a 24.99% share in Queenstown Airport, from the locals as well as Air New Zealand.

The airline had bought the stake on July 8 after agreeing to pay $27.7 per share, in a deal which allowed it to increase its stake by up to 35% by June 30, 2011.

However, the opponents are claiming that the deal was never considered between Auckland International Airport and Air New Zealand. They are now seeking their rights on Queenstown Airport's ownership.

Meanwhile, General Manager of Air New Zealand, Australasia Bruce Parton, said that the purchase of the stake by AIAL will boost the tourism earnings.

"It would also see Queenstown Airport have investors who genuinely understand how to grow tourism into Queenstown -- by keeping the cost of travel down", he said.

The AIAL officials also said that their prime aim in considering the deal is to see a growth in the tourism sector in the nation.

But they are a little perplexed about the opposition raised by the locals of the area for the deal.

The officials added that stretching the arguments and dialogues over the issue will simply deteriorate the matter.