Qantas has announced that it will commence construction on its new international lounge at Auckland Airport next month, with the existing lounge space set to close temporarily for the upgrade.
The renovation is scheduled to begin on April 23, 2025.
“We’ll begin construction on our new Auckland lounge, which will feature increased capacity and a dining experience showcasing the best of New Zealand food and wine. During construction, the lounge will be temporarily closed. If you’re travelling from Auckland over the construction period, we’ll keep you up to date on alternate arrangements closer to your flight,” Qantas wrote on its website.
The Auckland First and Business Lounge will be temporarily closed during the construction to facilitate an expansion into an adjacent space.
Qantas said the changes will increase seating capacity by 100 seats and will incorporate elements inspired by the preferences of passengers on the direct Auckland-New York flights.
It also said to provide guidance to travellers before the April 23 closure and will re-accommodate them within the airport.
“We’re building this new lounge for our customers and frequent flyers to align with our award-winning global lounge experience and as part of major upgrades happening around the network,” Qantas chief customer and digital officer Catriona Larritt said.
According to the airlines, the new lounge will deliver travellers an expanded range of premium dining choices, such as spaces for à la carte and buffet dining, and a bar showcasing a selection of New Zealand wines.
Qantas has collaborated with Australia’s Caon Design Office and Akin Atelier, along with New Zealand’s Architectus, to design the lounge.
The lounge’s interior design will be inspired by New Zealand’s landscape, with materials crafted and sourced in partnership with local suppliers.
Qantas’ Auckland lounge upgrade is expected to be completed by early 2026.