26 October 2007

Airport green lights next stage of international arrivals expansion 

Auckland Airport today announced that it has committed to the next stage of expansion of the arrivals processing facilities at the international terminal.

The project, referred to as Stage 3B, will bring the baggage hall, Customs/MAF Bio Security NZ secondary screening area and the arrivals concourse for meeters and greeters up to a newly developed first floor.  Located between Piers A and B the building will be at the centre of the international terminal and will extend across the current forecourt roads.  A combination of lifts, sloping travelators and escalators will move passengers and their meeters and greeters between the first and ground floors where parking and public transportation facilities will be located.

The development will substantially increase the landside arrivals concourse; improve terminal forecourt roads, traffic management and car parking facilities.  Inbound baggage reclaim/carousel capacity will also increase.  A wider range of food and beverage offerings, foreign exchange outlets, specialty retail, visitor information services, rental car outlets will also be included in the development.  Visitors and travellers will enjoy enhanced way-finding, and much more spacious areas with a distinctive New Zealand flavour.

Departing and arriving travellers using the new Pier B will not only have stunning views across the Manukau Harbour but will also pass through areas showcasing iconic New Zealand images, art and design as well as native flora, fauna, landscape and textures.

Capacity improvements to the arrivals and border agency processing area of the international terminal are currently underway for completion in June 2008 (Stage 3A).  This expansion involves a greatly enlarged and improved arrivals duty free retail offer.  Stage 3A is scheduled to be completed on time and on budget and will deliver much improved baggage and passenger processing until Stage 3B becomes operational.

Auckland Airport’s chief executive, Don Huse, said: “Once complete, international visitors and returning New Zealanders will enjoy great improvements when arriving at Auckland Airport.  Peak queue times will be greatly reduced and our essential border protection services will offer a more welcoming experience in a much more spacious environment.”

“Importantly, bringing the project ahead by 18 months means it will be completed mid 2011 and in time for the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.”

“Auckland Airport’s vision is to represent our country.  We want it to be an experience that is outstanding, uniquely Kiwi and welcoming. The Airport’s strategy is to greatly improve the passenger experience as part of its commitment to New Zealand tourism.  This development is essential to enhancing Auckland Airport’s performance during the next few years.”

The location of the new extension is an integral part of the international terminal’s future development as contained in the Airport’s 20-year Masterplan.  This includes the new pier (Pier B), Stage 1 of which is currently being built further to the west.

Stage 3B is expected to cost approximately $180 million primarily spread over three years.  It covers core terminal development and provides new roading, expanded car parking and creates extensive opportunities for much enhanced retail and commercial services.  A 4-5 star hotel is also planned for the international terminal precinct.

The bulk of this cost, approximately $120 million, is expected to be incurred in the FY10 and FY11 years.

Auckland Airport continues to consult with its airline customers to determine an appropriate recovery for the aeronautical costs associated with this investment.  Auckland Airport considered it crucial that finalising the pricing consultation process does not prevent completion of the project prior to the Rugby World Cup 2011.

Ends

© Scoop Media