Christchurch Airport is set to transform its hospitality offerings, with new interiors to open before Summer.
Christchurch Airport has unveiled plans to revamp its terminal offering, with the new facilities expected to be ready for a busy summer of international visitors. The project will deliver 12 new eateries, new retail spaces, upgraded bathrooms, a new parent’s room, a remodelled food court, and a large children’s play area.
Airport chief executive Justin Watson said it’s the first major upgrade since the terminal opened in 2013.
“This major project will take a great terminal and make it even greater. It’ll modernise our food and beverage offering with a distinctly Kiwi flavour, and provide much needed entertainment.”
Two of the new eateries, Fush and Tātou, will be operated by Ōtautahi entrepreneurs Anton and Jess Matthews and Māia Gooday who are known for their work in the community and championing te reo – along with exceptional hospitality experiences.
“We’re excited! There’s probably no better place for us to show manaakitanga than at the South Island’s gateway. We’re currently recruiting an extra 30 kaimahi (staff) who’ll definitely bring a whole new vibe to the Christchurch Airport whānau,” said Anton Matthews.
Christchurch business people Shawn Kim and Yong Song, who already own Sushi Platter in the terminal will deliver three new outlets in the food court.
“Hikari will serve ramen and donburi and Mama’s Kitchen will offer mouthwatering Korean street food. A new version of the Sushi Platter will sit right next to them,” said Shawn.
“We’re privileged that Christchurch Airport has given us this opportunity to share our cuisine and culture with travellers. We’re incredibly grateful to grow our presence in the airport community.”
David Cooper, Christchurch Airport’s GM of Customer and Commercial said the airport’s formed a strong partnership with global company SSP which will see both parties collectively contribute to a really modern refreshed area that we’ll be proud to show customers.
“SSP specialise in airport food and beverage offerings and operate in 37 countries. Their goal is to be the best bit of any customer’s journey – we’re lucky to be their first entry into the New Zealand market. We’re grateful for their support which enables us to deliver the first major refresh of the terminal in over ten years.”
SSP will operate seven outlets. There’ll be an impressive and inviting bar and restaurant named Portal at the top of the escalator where Number 8 café is now, a new café Fern and Co beside the entry to aviation security and a new café Urban Pantry in the regional departure lounge which includes a range of ‘grab and go’ options. They’ll also have an all-day café called Discovered in international arrivals.
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