New international pier
Auckland Airport’s ‘green’ terminal
Auckland Airport’s new international pier is setting a trend in environmental design as it prepares to become one of the first buildings in the country to be recognised with a new US rating for sustainable construction (LEED). 
Opened to the travelling public in late October 2008 by the Rt.Hon Helen Clark, this innovative airport building is brimming with environmentally friendly touches that complement Auckland Airport’s vision to embrace sustainability.
The completion of the new pier ends a major construction phase at the international terminal. In April 2008 a new arrivals area opened, greatly increasing the facilitation of arriving travellers, followed by the completion of the expanded border agency screening hall in July.
Welcome mat for the A380
Four years in the planning, the new pier has been built to meet increasing traveller numbers to Auckland, and to accommodate the much anticipated arrival of aviation’s newest giant aircraft, the Airbus A380. Auckland Airport is ready to roll out the welcome mat from 1 February 2009 when Emirates begins a daily A380 service between Dubai, Brisbane and Auckland. Auckland Airport is proud to be the only airport in New Zealand that can host the double-decker aircraft.
Gate flexibility
To be A380 friendly, the pier’s first gates, gate 15 and 16, are specially fitted with two Multi Aircraft Ramp System (MARS) airbridges able to disembark or load both levels of the aircraft. It also provides the unique ability of being able to service two A380s or four smaller aircraft at the same time.
All travellers will benefit from the extra aircraft capability as it will reduce the number of situations where travellers are bussed to and from an aircraft.
In the future, as the number of international travellers visiting New Zealand shores increases, another 10 gates could be added.
Representing New Zealand
Auckland Airport strives to represent New Zealand by providing an outstanding, welcoming and uniquely kiwi experience - the new pier is a shining example of this approach.
The arrival and departure levels of the building are adorned with touches of kiwi flavour to welcome and farewell both New Zealanders and overseas travellers. Specially selected imagery of unique wildlife and plant life brings the great outdoors to life and hints at just some of what New Zealand has to offer.
Large windows in the pier offer an insight to the busy airport environment as well as giving views to the west of the stunning Manukau Harbour.
On the departure level a distinctive sculpture by New Zealand artist Konstantin Dimopoulos prompts travellers to reflect on their idea of New Zealand. The series of vertical coloured rods move with the slightest breeze as if waving goodbye and wishing a safe journey to departing travellers.
Green features
Building a green building
Being green is not just about having a lot of eco-friendly features, but also about considering the whole construction process. Throughout the build plans were in place to prevent the pollution of storm water systems, to recycle all paper, glass, concrete and metal waste, and to regularly ventilate the building to remove any dust and toxic gases.
Solar panels
New Zealand’s sunny climate will help light the pier through 300m² of solar panels on the pier’s roof. The solar energy is expected to produce 49,500kWhr every year – the same amount of energy used by three to four households every year! Energy can’t be stored overnight, but during the day the solar panels produce enough energy to power the equivalent of the corridors connecting the new pier with the international terminal.
Solar hot water heating
Travellers using the sparkling first floor washrooms can experience hot water that is pre-heated using 40m² of solar water panels. This is expected to save 15,000 kWhr per year.
Rain harvesting
When the sun isn’t shining in Auckland, rainwater will be collected and piped to a rainwater reclaim tank farm. Approximately 4000m³ of rain water is expected to be collected annually and will be recycled for use in the air-conditioning cooling towers.
Reduced water usage
Water usage in the new pier is 40% lower than in a standard building due to low-flow fittings in the washrooms and the use of recycled water in the air-conditioning system cooling towers.
Cleaner air quality
Travellers can take a deep breath of clean air. After construction a lengthy ‘flush out’ period took place to reduce levels of dust, odours and chemicals typically found in newly constructed buildings. To maintain high air quality, carbon dioxide sensors throughout the area will regulate the amount of fresh air circulated in the building.
Energy management
Turning off lights is a great way to save power. In the new pier lights near windows will automatically switch off when there is enough natural light and lighting in the public areas will automatically reduce when the area is not being used. Energy will also be saved through the use of extra insulation, double glazing and the selection of energy efficient equipment.
Eco displays
Departing travellers can ‘linger and learn’ at two large LED touch screen monitors near gate 15. The displays will give a guided tour of what Auckland Airport is doing to be a responsible friend of the environment. One display will illustrate how much solar electricity is being produced, and how much carbon dioxide is being saved through the use of the solar panels.
LEED
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a US rating system that offers certification that a building meets the highest green building and performance measures. A LEED building is designed and constructed to be environmentally responsible, profitable and a healthy place to live and work. Auckland Airport’s new pier is built to LEED specifications and is awaiting confirmation that these standards have been met.