Airport terminal gets $42m makeover

Auckland International Airport's (AIA) domestic terminal is to get a $42 million makeover, co-funded by the airport and Air New Zealand.

The upgrade would convert the terminal into one building, with a new 2200 sq m retail precinct linking the two existing domestic terminals.

Other key changes included expanding the provincial airline gate lounge, expanding the check-in area, higher ceilings and wide open spaces, larger windows along the front of the building and expanded security screening points.

"We will be expanding and upgrading the terminal to become a fitting gateway to the rest of New Zealand and provide the services that passengers need in a relaxing and more spacious environment," Auckland Airport chief executive Don Huse said.

The $42m cost would be shared between Air New Zealand ($13m) and AIA ($29m, including $11m for construction of the new retail precinct).

Construction would begin in May, with the retail area expected to be finished by January 2007.

Shares in AIA last traded down 4c at $2.00, while Air NZ was 2c lower at $1.23.

- NZPA