Auckland Airport invests $200 million into purpose-built fashion outlet

A new purpose-built fashion outlet is set to open at Auckland Airport in 2024, after developers broke ground on the project this week. 

The $200 million-plus development will span 25,000m2 of retail space and will offer travellers a mix of premium and designer brands, including international brands not readily available in New Zealand. 

The new retail space will be located on the north-eastern side of the airport, and will be underpinned by sustainable design principles, with Auckland Airport targeting Green Star design and build. 

Once completed, the development is set to create more than 500 jobs in over 100 stores. 

Auckland Airport GM of property and commercial Mark Thomson said the business was excited to get the project started. 

“This is a major milestone for a project that we’ve been dreaming about for some time at Auckland Airport and we’re thrilled to see earthworks get well underway. 

“Outlet centres are no longer places for fashion retailers to get rid of excess or factory seconds – they have evolved into leading shopping destinations in their own right.

“Our vision is to create a landmark outlet shopping centre at Auckland Airport, offering a unique retail and dining experience and mix of high-quality international brands to visitors, with the bonus of easy transport connections right on its doorstep,” he said. 

Alongside the fashion offering, the outlet centre will house a food and beverage precinct with cafes and restaurants, as well as a large outdoor seating area with views over a park-like setting, mangroves and an inlet of the Manukau Harbour. 

Additionally, the space will see the installation of roads, 1400 carparks and utility services. 

Thomson added that the opening of the precinct is based on case studies from other airports. 

“Outlet centres that are located near airports overseas have proven to be an extremely robust retail asset class.

“Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s gateway and with the international border about to reopen, we are confident the development is going to provide an exciting addition to the airport traveller experience in the years to come,” he said. 

During the COVID lockdowns, Auckland Airport has been upgrading its core road network, investing $160 million in roads around the precinct to prioritise public transport and enable smooth journeys for people heading to and from the terminals.