Auckland Airport has signed a contract with Hawkins Limited, a subsidiary of Downer Group, to manage the construction of its new domestic terminal, the largest component of the airport’s terminal integration programme.

This contract is valued at around 800 million NZD. Its award marks a major milestone in Auckland Airport’s ongoing 2.2 billion NZD infrastructure programme.

This undertaking is expected to create 2,500 jobs at its peak, along with business opportunities that will benefit South Auckland.

The next phase of the project includes pile foundations that will support the long-term resilience and capacity needs of New Zealand’s gateway airport.

Ultimately, the building, airfield, integrated baggage systems and associated facilities aim to provide the essential resilience and capacity to support future travel demands.

Chief Executive of Auckland Airport, Carrie Hurihanganui said:

We’re pleased to announce that we have partnered with Hawkins on the delivery of the domestic jet terminal building – the most significant element in Auckland Airport’s ongoing upgrade.

It’s an investment for the coming decades and beyond, creating essential resilience, greater capacity, improved processing for domestic jet travellers and their baggage, and a greater experience for everyone who travels, visits, and works in our aviation precinct.

It will also create a boost for the economy, creating a strong pipeline of work for the construction industry, generating thousands of jobs, and an upturn in activity to benefit suppliers and New Zealand’s subcontracting workforce.

AKL’s terminal integration programme includes several projects across the airfield, utilities, transport, and terminal systems.

More than 23% of the infrastructure is already complete, with the airport now focussed on expanding the international terminal to the east and building the domestic jet terminal.

The new terminal will include a headhouse, a 240-metre gate pier, and 44% more processing space for passengers.

The project is scheduled for completion in five years, with the new terminal set to open to the public in 2029 after operational testing.

Downer Group Chief Executive Officer, Peter Tompkins, said:

Downer and Hawkins are proud to be involved in this significant project, which will deliver a world-class terminal for travellers, airlines and the people of New Zealand.

The new terminal will be the first built at Auckland Airport in almost 50 years. The design prioritises functionality, keeping travel affordable while meeting basic customer needs such as comfortable seating, charging stations, and modern bathroom facilities.

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