Queenstown airport starts $12 million terminal extension

Queenstown Airport is about to begin the next major project in its capital development programme.

Over the next 14 months, the terminal building will be extended north towards the airfield to provide 800m² of new office and operational space for Air New Zealand, Planebiz, and the Aviation Security Service. Fitout of the new space and renovation of existing offices will then proceed in stages, with the overall project scheduled for completion early in 2027.

“This will give airline staff working behind the scenes a much better work environment, and will also improve operational efficiency,” project manager Greg Emms says.

The extension will include a non-passenger screening room where airport workers, contractors, and visitors will undergo security checks before entering restricted areas.

The project also incorporates significant electrical upgrades.

A new 1.5 MVA transformer will be installed and connected to the high-voltage network at Lucas Place. A new main electrical switch room and a new airfield ground lighting power centre will also be constructed. Once these are operational, the existing Airways power centre building will be demolished.

“This is an important investment in resilience,” Mr Emms says. “Queenstown Airport is an essential community asset, and we need to ensure our critical infrastructure is robust.”

In total, the project will cost about $12 million.

Queenstown Airport is also spending about $10 million on the final two stages of a programme to seismically strengthen the structure of the terminal, and increase its ability to withstand an earthquake.

The project involves a combination of structural steelwork, bracing, micropiling, and the reinforcement of columns. Contractors have started in the baggage hall and will soon move into the check-in area, then into the centre of the terminal. The work is all being done at night and is expected to take about 17 months to complete.

“This seismic strengthening project underscores Queenstown Airport's commitment to the safety of our passengers, staff, and wider community,” Chief Operating Officer Todd Grace says. “It is also an important part of our efforts to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and our preparedness for a natural disaster.”

Main Image: An image of the Queenstown Airport terminal extension, which is to be built between the air traffic control tower and the baggage hall. (Please note this image does not show the Airport Emergency Service base beside the tower.)