Transport Hub

As Auckland Airport planned for growth and progressed its long-term redevelopment programme, ground transport infrastructure emerged as a key enabler of future performance. An existing carpark, constructed in 1977, could no longer support increasing passenger volumes, evolving transport modes, or the operational resilience required of Aotearoa’s busiest airport.

To address these challenges, Auckland International Airport Limited embarked on the development of Transport Hub 01, a large-scale, multi-storey transport facility. This major investment aimed to significantly expand pick-up and drop-off capacity, improve connectivity across the airport precinct, and create a more intuitive and positive user experience. Importantly, the transformation needed to be delivered within a live airport environment, with minimal disruption to operations and travelers.

Turning Strategy Into Delivery

Works began in late 2020, making the Hub the Airport’s first major infrastructure project to break ground after the disruption of the global pandemic. TSA Riley supported the transition from strategic intent to operational reality, providing project management services across design and construction delivery.

Our role spanned design management, construction procurement, contractor coordination, variation management and review of contractor claims. We drove value for money through rigorous programme review, optimised sequencing, and embedding an experienced team on site, co-located with the contractor, to resolve issues early and ensure close alignment with the Airport’s strategic priorities.

Construction was staged and carefully managed to minimise disruption to travelers and day-to-day airport operations. Regular coordination with the project’s Quantity Surveyor supported effective cost management, timely resolution of change, and informed decision-making.

Drawing on experience from other projects around the precinct, our team introduced alternative technical approaches that delivered cost efficiencies and performance benefits while maintaining quality and resilience expectations.

The Hub opened to the public in March 2024, while completion of the final stages – including office space, landscaping and an additional 4 floors of parking – was achieved in October 2024.

Real World Benefits

The completed Hub is a modern 70,000 sqm multi-storey facility that significantly enhances Auckland Airport’s ground transport capacity. The development more than doubles public pick-up and drop-off space and provides 320 metres of undercover lanes, capable of handling up to 650 vehicles per hour at peak times, with separate zones for different transport modes.

Beyond transport capacity, the project included extensive hard and soft landscaping works that created an attractive new pedestrian plaza, improving connectivity and strengthening links between the terminal, surrounding hotels and various transport modes.

Most importantly, the Hub improves the experience of millions of travelers each year – making journeys smoother, improving accessibility, and ensuring Auckland Airport is well positioned for future growth.