Context is Everything

Context has been working with Auckland International Airport Limited (AIAL) since 2018 across multiple sites and services including public transit, dwell, food and beverage spaces and back of house technical and non-technical areas.  Given the operational nature of the airport Context has used technology and taken innovative approaches to ensure minimal impact on airport clients and guests. Further to this there is always a need to be highly responsive and work to the shortest possible timelines so retailers can open their doors as soon as possible ensuring commerciality is taken into account.  Recent projects for AIAL include International arrivals and domestic terminal dwell zone.

The update to the Arrivals area at Auckland Airport provides international travellers with an improved airport experience. This involved improvements to navigation and the implementation of strategies to increase shopper footfall across all outlets.

A digital 3D site capture of the existing area was undertaken to aid the design process, enabling stakeholders to experience the proposed design solutions and assisting new occupiers to visualise their tenancies and provide feedback before construction work began.

The design emphasised easy wayfinding, standout signage and sightline improvement to improve visibility as travellers moved through. Designs for food and beverage outlets, retail stores, and a retro caravan with seating and dwell zones were included as part of the design solution.

The new Dwell Zone at Auckland’s domestic airport introduces a ‘living room’ concept over two levels catering to the range of user groups including business travellers, families, groups and individuals, transiting through the terminal.

Emphasis was placed on the connection between the new space and the existing departure zones, encouraging travellers to engage with the new offering.

The Dwell Zone is inspired by a holiday home concept bringing the colours, textures, and forms of the kiwi bach into the scheme. This new space offers an alternative experience for travellers without airline lounge memberships, providing a place to pause, plug in and prepare for the next leg of a journey.