Wellington unveils new terminal design

Nicole Mezzasalma

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“The Rock” uses coloured glass fragments to optimise the effects of natural light and give the terminal an unusual look

Wellington International airport has unveiled the design of its new international passenger terminal, which will complete the second phase of expansion and improvement of the facility. Nicknamed “The Rock”, the building uses coloured glass fragments in the roof fissure to let in natural light by day and backlighting at night. Wellington architects Studio Pacific Architecture in association with Warren and Mahoney have designed the new terminal.

The first stage of the development, completed in December 2007, features reconfigured and consolidated duty-free shopping areas operated by The Nuance Group subsidiary Regency Duty Free. Phase two, expected to be concluded by the end of 2009, will include an expanded and redesigned international departures lounge and a new café. The new passenger terminal is expected to cost NZ$39m ($31.1m).

Wellington airport CEO Steven Fitzgerald said: “Our radical departure from traditional airport design worldwide is entirely deliberate. What is set to become New Zealand’s newest iconic building, The Rock combines functionality and capacity with what will be a memorable visitor experience. It’s edgy and in keeping with our Wild at Heart attitude, reflecting Wellington’s status as a vibrant and daring cultural city. With our commitment to regional tourism and further developing international services, we are creating the airport to take Wellington into the next decade.”