Kaitaia Aerodrome was originally built for American long-range bombers around the time of the second world war so that the aircraft could reach parts of the South Pacific from their base in the Far North.

On 13 June 2005, Kaitaia Airport received an injection of $333,850 to upgrade its runway facilities so that it could accommodate larger aircraft.

The Far North District Council approved loan funding for Kaitaia Airport's project to allow it to accommodate aircraft with a pavement classification number PCN 15.

During the project, $1.4 million invested into the airport was to provide larger hardstand areas and better terminal facilities.

The airport is home to the Kaitaia Aero Club, which operates a small flight school from its hangar.