Auckland Airport Terminal Expansion – Domestic Processor

Connecting the domestic and international terminals at Auckland Airport to deliver a seamless gateway into Aotearoa New Zealand

One of the country’s most significant and complex infrastructure projects

The main gateway into Aotearoa New Zealand, Auckland Airport welcomes more than 21 million passengers each year, representing 70% of all international visitors to the country. Since opening in 1966, it has grown to become one of the largest airports in Australasia.

The airport is integrating its domestic and international terminals in the largest transformation to occur in 60 years. Aimed at delivering a seamless journey through the airport, the expansion is one of New Zealand’s most significant and highly complex infrastructure projects. Located on the eastern end of the existing international terminal, the new 80,000sqm domestic terminal will be three times the size of the existing facility.

The design is focused on improving the passenger experience, with the new indoor walking time between terminals reduced to just five minutes. Alongside, aeronautical operations, the retail experience and terminal operations will all be improved.

Jasmax is leading the architectural design in collaboration with Grimshaw, as part of a wider consortium led by Mott MacDonald, which also includes Holmes, Maynard Design Consultancy and Worley.

A functional design that reflects Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

The new domestic terminal will include a pier, apron and airside dwell space, food and beverage and retail spaces, and check-in kiosks that cater to domestic and international travellers. The journey home (to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland) and reconnection with the land underpins the interior design language of the large light-filled spaces, invoking notions of voyage, transition, and arrival in thematic zones.

A river-like circulation path intuitively guides passengers between terminals, complemented by comfortable seating areas. Colours and materials reflect the neighbouring Manukau Harbour, volcanic lava fields and nearby maunga (mountains).

Sustainability is a key driver for the project, with the new domestic terminal aiming to lower embodied carbon by 20% and reduce operational carbon by 40%, when compared to an agreed benchmark.

Enabling works began in 2022 and the new domestic terminal is expected to welcome travellers in 2028 – 2029.