More than half a century after its original construction, Auckland Airport’s has officially opened its most significant airfield expansion.

Adding around 23 rugby fields of space to the airport’s existing 1.4 million square metre apron, taxiway and runway network, it creates parking for up to 11 jets, while strengthening cargo connections between road and airfield.

Auckland Airport Chief Executive Carrie Hurihanganui said it marked a milestone moment for AKL, completing a major piece of aeronautical infrastructure to support New Zealand’s growth ambitions and keep the country’s gateway airport running efficiently. 

“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. 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,” she said. 

The newly opened airfield includes five MARS (Multiple Aircraft Ramp System) stands, each with jet fuel connections and future-proofed with electricity connections, with one unserviced stand. Built with flexibility in mind together they can accommodate both widebody and narrowbody jets. 

“The availability of these stands increases our airfield efficiency, allowing aircraft with longer layovers to move off the terminal gates and park up here to prepare for the outbound flight, particularly during our daily peak periods,” said Ms Hurihanganui.

The new apron sits alongside Auckland Airport’s developing cargo precinct, which connects directly via a newly built airside road and secure access.

“Cargo is an important, if sometimes less visible, part of international connectivity,” Ms Hurihanganui said. 

“While we are served by a strong freighter network, around 80% of New Zealand’s air cargo still travels in the belly of passenger aircraft. 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 handers.” 

Auckland Airport handles more than $26 billion in trade, making it New Zealand’s third-largest port by cargo value. By 2032, this is expected to rise to more than $41 billion annually.

The new international airfield also paves the way for Auckland Airport to advance construction of the new domestic jet terminal, closing an area of airfield space to be reconfigured to become the new domestic jet terminal aircraft pier and apron.

Once complete, the 240-metre-long pier, featuring 12 jet gates and a dedicated 80,000 m2 domestic apron, will deliver 26% more seat capacity than the existing domestic terminal.