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Auckland Airport has completed works on a major NZ$465 million airfield expansion.
The project, which adds the equivalent of 23 rugby fields of new apron and taxiway space, creates parking for 11 jets and is part of the airport’s $3.9 billion terminal integration program. According to Auckland Airport, this is the most significant infrastructure project since it opened in 1966.
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“Right now, New Zealand’s international connectivity is still recovering to reach and surpass 2019 levels, but we are optimistic for the future with long-term growth on the horizon,” chief executive Carrie Hurihanganui said.
“Key international airline partners tell us they are preparing to take delivery of new aircraft over the coming years, including one with an order of around 150 planes.
“This growth presents an important opportunity for New Zealand, and AKL’s airfield investment means we will have the right infrastructure in place, at the right time, to support efficient operations while strengthening the country’s travel and trade connections.”
The expansion adds five MARS (Multiple Aircraft Ramp System) stands with jet fuel and electricity connections, capable of supporting both narrow-body and wide-body planes, plus one unserviced stand, and is capable of hosting large jets including the Airbus A380.
Additionally, the apron expansion is next to the airport’s cargo precinct to allow easier access. According to Hurihanganui, cargo is “an important, if sometimes less visible, part of international connectivity”.
“While we are served by a strong freighter network, around 80 per cent of New Zealand’s air cargo still travels in the belly of passenger aircraft,” she said.
“Much of it is high-value New Zealand produce – flowers, salmon, cherries – that must arrive in overseas markets in perfect condition, often at times of peak demand like Christmas and New Year.
“By creating an efficient, integrated cargo hub we’re helping New Zealand businesses grow, with faster turnaround times and closer coordination between airlines, freight companies and ground handlers.”
While the stands do not currently link directly to the international terminal, there are provisions to convert them to contact stands in future as required.
“As part of our master planning process, which is underway now, we anticipate a time when more contact stands will be needed,” Hurihanganui said.
“When it was built around 17 years ago, the design of Pier B on the international terminal contemplated this, with allowance for additional gate lounges and aircraft gates to be added to the northern side as demand grows.”
The airport says its NZ$3.9 billion terminal overhaul program will link the international and new domestic terminals, adding more capacity and simpler connections.
When completed in 2028–29, the integrated terminal will replace the old domestic terminal, much of which dates from the 1960s and 70s.
