10 April 2026
Auckland Airport is pleased to welcome today’s announcement of the Auckland Deal, a landmark commitment to long-term collaboration and co-ordinated delivery for one of the world’s greatest cities.
Auckland Airport Chief Executive Carrie Hurihanganui called the Auckland Deal a significant milestone for Auckland’s economic future and growth ambitions.
“This is the kind of bold joined up thinking Auckland needs,” Ms Hurihanganui said.
“The Auckland Deal creates a clear path for business, central government and local government to align around shared priorities and to progress into action and delivery. I congratulate the Government and the Mayor on reaching this point, as it shows what’s possible when the right partners commit to a common goal.
“Auckland Airport plays a vital role in our city’s economic story. As the country’s gateway for visitors, exporters, and freight connections, we are the first and last impression of Auckland for millions of people each year. We’re in the midst of the most significant upgrade in our history, expanding capacity, strengthening resilience, and future-proofing the infrastructure this city depends on. The Auckland Deal provides the planning certainty and connectivity framework that will help ensure Auckland fully realises the benefits of that investment for generations to come."
The Auckland Deal includes a commitment for Auckland Council, central government and Auckland Airport to prepare a development and investment plan to improve surface access to the precinct.
"Auckland Airport is one of the busiest destinations in our city with more than 50,000 travellers and 25,000 workers making the journey here every single day. Better connections to the airport mean better outcomes for business travellers, holiday makers and airport workers commuting to what is the city’s second largest employment hub.
"Efficient, reliable airport access also keeps time-sensitive freight moving, strengthens our links to international markets, and underpins New Zealand's broader economic productivity.
“The Deal identifies initial infrastructure priorities around the northern and southeastern access points to the airport, which connect airport-owned roads with council and NZTA-owned roads. It also agrees on progressing the delivery of Auckland’s Rapid Transit Network, including a Botany-to-Airport connection. This coordination is essential for us to deliver outcomes that work for travellers, workers and freight operators,” Ms Hurihanganui said.
“When access and connectivity work well, benefits flow across the country, supporting exporters, tourism and business travel and helping New Zealand stay connected to global markets.
“We look forward to continuing to work with the Government and Auckland Council as the airport precinct plan is developed and delivered.”
Auckland Airport contributes over $35 billion in annual economic output, projected to increase to about $54.9 billion by 2032. Every daily widebody that touches down at Auckland Airport brings an estimated $1.4 million in economic value to New Zealand.
ENDS