Changes ahead for Auckland Airport

27 January 2005

Changes ahead for Auckland Airport's domestic terminal forecourt

In the next week, civil work will begin on the forecourt area of the Air New Zealand domestic terminal at Auckland Airport. By the end of the 12-week programme, travellers will notice major improvements to the usability of the forecourt.

Auckland International Airport Limited (AIAL) chief executive officer, Don Huse, says that the changes are needed, "we have had an average of over eight percent per annum increase in passengers using the domestic facilities since 1999 and at the moment during peak hours, we are experiencing traffic congestion in front of the Air New Zealand domestic terminal.

"The redesign of the forecourt layout will provide for greater numbers of vehicles and people to use the terminal and a simpler layout."

By the end of works: the public pick-up and drop-off zone will have doubled in size; there will be over 50 percent more taxi rank space; the pedestrian crossings will have been widened and straightened; there will be a specific bus stop zone as well as tour coach bays; and the Koru valet parking area will have moved to the other end of the terminal.

A comprehensive traffic management plan is being put in place and the work is staged to minimise any adverse impact on users of the area. However, during construction, some congestion may be apparent. "We will be asking for understanding and tolerance from the travelling public in this regard."

"This development, along with the other projects occurring around Auckland Airport is adding capacity in support of the very strong growth experienced by New Zealand's travel and tourism industry."

Work is scheduled to be finished on the domestic terminal forecourt by early May this year.

ENDS

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