Steel columns are now being lifted into place as vertical construction begins on Auckland Airport’s new domestic jet terminal.

This milestone marks the first visible stage of the terminal’s main structure, with 92 structural columns installed in the initial phase and 190 in total planned across the build.

Standing up to 21 metres tall and weighing up to 12 tonnes each, these columns will form the foundation of the terminal’s headhouse—a key hub containing domestic arrivals, baggage claim, airline lounges, traveller amenities, and a cutting-edge baggage system.

Auckland Airport Chief Infrastructure Officer Susana Fueyo Suarez said the project represents one of the most significant infrastructure developments in New Zealand.

“This is one of the country’s largest infrastructure projects underway right now, and it’s exciting to see the structure rise above the ground,” she said.

“You’d have to go back almost 50 years to find a project of this scale at Auckland Airport.”

The domestic terminal is the centrepiece of a larger upgrade programme modernising New Zealand’s third-largest port by trade value.

The new 240-metre-long gate pier will increase passenger processing space by 44%, boost airline seat capacity by 26%, and improve connectivity between domestic and international flights.

Construction will peak in 2027, with 2,500 workers on-site. D&H Steel Construction in West Auckland is fabricating 1,600 tonnes of structural steel, with an additional 3,000 tonnes for beams, roof structures, and lift shafts.

D&H Steel Construction General Manager Richard Hine highlighted the project's importance.

“We’ve had a long history with Auckland Airport, delivering steel fabrication for some of its biggest projects. More than 200 of our employees will be involved in various aspects of this build,” he said. “We’re proud to contribute to a project that’s shaping the future of Auckland’s infrastructure.”

Beyond construction jobs, Auckland Airport remains a key driver of economic growth, facilitating $35.1 billion in annual economic value.

By 2032, this impact is expected to increase to $54.9 billion, including $41.1 billion in freight movements.

Enhancing the Travel Experience

The new individual carrier baggage system (ICS) will bring faster, more efficient luggage handling, fully integrating with ongoing upgrades to the airport’s 30-year-old baggage system.

Above the baggage facilities, traveller dwell spaces, cafés, and airline lounges will provide enhanced pre-departure comfort.

Auckland Airport’s infrastructure upgrades extend beyond the domestic terminal, with 97% of projects in active design, procurement, or construction.

The total redevelopment covers 400,000m² of aeronautical-focused infrastructure, ensuring Auckland remains a competitive and resilient travel hub.

Globally, around 200 airport redevelopment projects are underway, preparing for the future of air travel. Auckland Airport’s transformation is a key part of this trend.

In September 2024, Auckland Airport signed an $800 million contract with Downer Group subsidiary Hawkins Construction to deliver the new terminal.

With visible progress now underway, Auckland is one step closer to unveiling a modern, high-capacity domestic travel hub.

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