Lounge Review: Air New Zealand Business Premier, Auckland International

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Look and feel

The lounge is bright and airy, and benefits from a lot of natural light thanks to huge windows that offer an impressive view of awaiting aircraft. It was peak hour when I visited, and very full, yet there was a pleasant and sophisticated ambiance. The lounge is decorated in a clean, modern style with furnishings that echo the Air New Zealand brand colours. Dark grey seating is juxtaposed with white tiles and pink chairs, and it all comes together well to create a very pleasant space. Standout features include a winter garden indoor/outdoor area where, in good weather, the roof opens letting in fresh air and natural light.

Entertainment

There’s fast, free WiFi throughout the lounge and plenty of things to keep you busy. There’s a popular media room where lounge chairs are set up facing a large screen (playing a rugby match when I visited) and a business centre for those working on the go (with laptops available to borrow if you’ve forgotten your own). This is a modern lounge built with today’s travel habits in mind, so power and USB outlets abound. Outside the business zone power is available at nearly every seat, with outlets cleverly installed in walls, on the floor and even in tables between the seats.

Eat in

One of the most popular areas of this lounge is the coffee bar. It was in constant use. The lounge is high tech, and includes an electronic ordering system for coffee and tea. There’s also an app that regular visitors can download, meaning by the time you arrive at the lounge your order is ready!

Another popular area was the restaurant. When I visited, a chef was cooking a variety of breakfast dishes in a live demonstration. It smelt great! For time-poor visitors like me, there’s a self-service buffet, which included typical premium-lounge fare such as breads, muffins and fruit salad.

At the bar I saw tap beers (local ale Steinlager had a good presence) and bottled spirits on display.

Freshen up

There are a number of relaxation areas within the lounge with three hanging chairs being a firm favourite. These seats are suspended from the ceiling and give a hammock-like feel through a gentle swaying movement. There are also bright pink daybeds, which are far more comfortable than they appear.

The shower rooms are pleasant with ample space to refresh between flights. They include a large dresser and mirror, a toilet and a shower area with both rainwater and handheld options. Towels are provided and amenity kits can be requested.

Family friendly?

The lounge really stands out here. It has excellent facilities for kids and young families by way of a dedicated kids zone. It is far bigger and more extensive than any other I’ve seen. This includes a parents’ lounge, kids’ play zone, a multi-storey cubby house, toys, games, a beanbag room, and even a small observation area where the kids can see their parents in the lounge below.

For more information visit airnewzealand.com.au