Auckland Airport enters next phase of international terminal redevelopment

Auckland Airport is moving into the next phase of its international terminal redevelopment, with retail and duty-free areas being refurbished for departing and arriving travellers.

The airport said the retail upgrade is its most significant airside refurbishment in a decade.

Work is underway on duty-free areas at international departures and arrivals, including two stores near departure gates.

The airport said the refurbished areas will have new layouts and a wider range of products, with beauty and fragrance at the centre of the changes.

Auckland Airport Chief Commercial Officer Mark Thomson said the changes are aimed at giving travellers a more engaging experience and greater choice.

"This is a deliberate move to strengthen our retail mix, provide an enhanced customer proposition, and modernise the space."

The redevelopment will also include new standalone retail stores, while the airport said further improvements to food and beverage areas are planned later this year.

Two standalone stores due to open later this year are skincare and bodycare brand Aesop and French fragrance brand Le Labo.

Some of the refurbished duty-free areas have already reopened, with the remaining retail refurbishment expected to be completed by December.

The airport said the overall footprint of its duty-free area will not increase as part of the redevelopment.

The international terminal transformation has been underway since January, with the work being carried out in stages while the terminal remains operational.

The airport is advising travellers to allow plenty of time to clear security and reach their gates while the redevelopment continues.