Travellers landing in Auckland will notice changes at the international terminal after the first phase of a $5.7 billion upgrade programme went live on 22 August.

The new-look arrivals hall, delivered in partnership with Biosecurity New Zealand and the New Zealand Customs Service, includes an expanded “nothing to declare” express lane supported by detector dog screening.

Around 1,300m² of space has been upgraded, with new back-of-house facilities helping staff manage passenger flows more efficiently.

Auckland Airport says the upgrade improves traveller experience while strengthening border security.

Median processing times have dropped from nearly 29 minutes in 2023 to just under 15 minutes in June 2025, with an 8% improvement in the past year alone.

Biosecurity Commissioner Mike Inglis said the facilities are key to keeping New Zealand’s $60 billion primary industries safe from pests and diseases.

Customs’ Dana McDonald added that the changes, combined with wider use of digital traveller declarations and eGates, make arrivals smoother for eligible passengers.

Behind the scenes, a new western truck dock has opened, providing six bays for faster turnaround of terminal deliveries and improved waste handling.

The old facility has closed to make way for the new domestic jet terminal.

For Hibiscus Coast locals who regularly fly in and out of Auckland, these upgrades mean faster processing, shorter queues and stronger protections at the country’s main gateway.

With more phases to come, the airport has also launched an interactive website showing how its master plan will unfold through to 2047.

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