Auckland’s new domestic terminal design plans have been revealed ahead of construction starting in 2024.
Auckland Airport has unveiled the design of its new domestic jet terminal, and it promises to prioritise passenger comfort, convenience, and functionality with construction set to take off later this year.
The new terminal design, planned to be completed by 2030, is inspired by the scenes of New Zealand’s second-largest natural harbour, Manukau Harbour, with simplicity at the forefront of its design.
Auckland Airport’s Chief Customer Officer Scott Tasker said: “We’ve been careful to benchmark the terminal design against other airports. Like us, airports around the world are underway upgrading infrastructure that was built to manage aircraft flying in the 1960s and 70s.”
“This means we have some good examples to reference, including right across the Tasman where Brisbane Airport is underway with an A$5 billion programme that includes a new third terminal and existing terminal refurbishment.”
A further $1.7 billion is projected to cover the expansion integration of Auckland Airport’s domestic and international travel services.
Tasker adds: “Easy to get around, efficient processing, somewhere to charge your phone and a comfortable place to sit while you wait for your flight – that’s what we’re going deliver for our customers.”
“It’s something we challenged ourselves to tackle in every aspect of the new domestic terminal design, from the simplicity of how travellers find their way around, to the colours and lighting we’ve chosen for key interior spaces to make it less stressful,” he said.
“It’s about bringing together fit-for-purpose functionality with an arrival and departure experience that uniquely reflects Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.”
The new terminal design, which has been in the works for three years, is expected to increase customer processing by up to 44 per cent.
Auckland Airport’s new domestic jet terminal plans
The new terminal will feature a simple and robust exterior made of tray-profile steel. The all-electric heating and cooling systems and low-carbon materials used in the interior create a functional and sustainable design.
The design features a river-like circulation path for travellers leading to a single aircraft pier, soft-seating areas with charging points and a clear view of flight information boards for relaxation while waiting for flights.
The airport’s design draws inspiration from the surrounding tidal harbour, volcanic stone fields and maunga, creating a relaxed atmosphere with a cost-effective mix of durable carpeted and rubber flooring.
According to Auckland Aiport, sustainability is a core component of the project, with targets of reducing embodied carbon and achieving a 30 per cent decrease in its operational emissions.
In addition, the construction of 12 new jet aircraft gates is forecast to create 26 per cent more seat capacity, with a further 10 per cent seat capacity available with dedicated domestic bus lounges.
In February 2024, Auckland Airport welcomed its first 5-star and indigenous-led design hotel to the precinct.
Find out more info about Auckland Airport here.
