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Christchurch Airport has completed a major terminal redevelopment, with the opening of a new children’s play area marking the final stage of the project.
The multi-million-dollar upgrade, which has taken 20 months to complete, is the first major transformation of the terminal since it opened in 2013 and is aimed at improving the experience for nearly seven million passengers annually.
Expanded food, retail and facilities
The redevelopment includes a redesigned food court, 10 new food and beverage outlets, expanded retail spaces, upgraded bathrooms and improved seating.
The airport has also introduced three dedicated parent rooms, gender-neutral facilities, new flight information screens and improved passenger flow throughout the terminal.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the upgrade responds directly to customer feedback.
“We’ve worked hard to design this around what our customers told us they wanted, more choice, more comfort and a smoother journey.
“We’re seeing passenger numbers really take off, and this project is all about keeping up with that and then going a bit further.”
Focus on local and hospitality offering
The expanded hospitality offering has been delivered in partnership with SSP Group.
Local businesses and products also feature prominently, including FUSH, Adelphi chocolates and Lyttelton pottery.
FUSH co-founder Anton Matthews says the airport presence reflects the brand’s focus on local hospitality.
“Being in the terminal means we can give manuhiri a real taste of Ōtautahi, and locals something familiar and high quality as they travel.”
New family-focused play area
The final addition is an Antarctic-themed children’s play area located in the food court, developed with input from Antarctica New Zealand.
The space includes a C-17 play plane, interactive digital screens and sensory features, and sits alongside a new parent room near the regional departure gates.
Justin says the play area completes the project.
“The play area is the final part of the jigsaw… creating a more inclusive, family friendly space where great customer experience is at the heart of everything we do.”
Technology and future plans
The upgrade has also introduced LiDAR technology to better understand passenger movement and improve flow, alongside new digital wayfinding signage incorporating te reo Māori.
Christchurch Airport chief commercial and technology officer David Cooper says further improvements are planned.
“Our terminal is always evolving… we already have our eye on future improvements, including more retail and digital developments.”
Since construction began, nearly 11 million passengers have travelled through the terminal, with work staged to minimise disruption.
