A Ngai Tahu runaka says it's comfortable taking a minor stake in a loss-making airport.
Te Runaka o Waihopai is one of three tribal councils who bought into Invercargill Airport late last year.
The deal went ahead under a Treaty settlement first right of refusal to buy clause, when the Crown offloaded its shareholding of 2.8 percent.
Runaka upoko (head) Michael Skerrett said the purchase is more about being part of the community.
He said there's no financial benefit and they only paid a small amount of money - twelve hundred and 50 dollars per runaka.
Mr Skerrett said Te Runaka o Waihopai has good relations with the airport's majority owner, Invercargill City Council, and wanted to show support for the community.
