Christchurch Airport has pulled back and put their controversial Tarras airport project on hold.

Chief executive Justin Watson announced that all future work on the airport would be delayed, saying more time is needed to examine the overall impact and consult with local and national stakeholders.

Christchurch city councillor Yani Johansen suspects short-term financial constrains caused the delay.

"We've got massive amounts of things we need to focus on, there are much greater priorities than a new international airport in central Otago."

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