Auckland Airport's new uncovered carpark has officially opened, providing an accessible way for travellers to enter the terminal.
The transformation of a 75,000 metre-squared uncovered carpark and the front doorstep of the international terminal is now complete, delivering a much-improved experience for travellers arriving and departing from Auckland Airport.
Travellers can now once again park right outside the international terminal, with the final floors of the Transport Hub opening over the next two weeks. The old asphalt carpark, built around the time the international terminal opened in 1977, closed two years ago to make way for the new upgrades.
Chief Commercial Officer Mark Thomson said the new area provides a real step change in the way customers journey to and from the airport, with quick connections from road to plane.
“Over the last two years, we’ve transformed the front doorstep of the international terminal. This new experience gives customers a preview of what’s to come over the next five years, as we get on with delivering a new domestic jet and international terminal experience. This is just the beginning,” he said.
“Enjoying time with loved ones for those special goodbyes or much anticipated welcomes will now be easier, with more short-term parking available right outside the front entrance of the international terminal.”
The new 40,000 metre-squared plaza area includes 680 metres of covered walkways plus boardwalks, taking customers past the well-known Jean Batten statue. There are open spaces creating a contemporary outdoor area and extensive native planting with 21 large Pōhutukawa trees re-located from across the precinct and more than 43,000 native plants with 4,000 new plants coming from local nurseries.
The outdoor space connects the international terminal with the hotels (Novotel and Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel) and the Transport Hub.
Once fully operational by the end of November, the Transport Hub, which is aiming for a Gold Parksmart Certification sustainability rating, will have more than 2,000 additional undercover carparks, including more than 30 new electric vehicle charging stations and over 40 additional accessible parking options.
“We are pleased to deliver new levels of the Transport Hub and provide more choice for travellers when it comes to parking,” said Thomson.
“My best tip for parking at AKL: discounted rates are available for pre-booking online for both international and domestic long term parking. Currently prices can be up to 35 per cent less when you book online ahead of time.”
The new parking facility at the Transport Hub adds to a suite of parking options at Auckland Airport, ranging from value-based deals for long-term trips, to more premium options based on their proximity to the international terminal.
“Our focus is on providing customers with choice in terms of parking, from undercover options right outside the terminal, to great value options such as Park & Ride, where prices have remained the same since 2019.”
