Wellington Airport is ready to Rock

The Rock was the last project of an extensive five year two-stage development to
increase capacity to meet existing demand and prepare for future Growth at the Capital
city airport. The new addition has more than doubled the space in the departure lounge
and will allow the airport to process up to 1,000 passengers per hour.

The Rock has already hit the headlines for its eye catching design reflecting the form of
the local geography. The largest of the three Rock structures is 16m high and 33m wide
at the widest point and the whole building is encased in copper plating, the colour of
which will evolve and change over time as it is exposed to the elements.

"The Rock is fantastic! It reflects the airport's location on Wellington's unique and
amazing South Coast - the design pushes new boundaries, yet is functional and cost
effective" said Lloyd Morrison, Wellington Businessman and Infratil Director.
As well as being designed to meet functional requirements, The Rock was also designed
to make a statement about Wellington. Known as the capital of cool the city is known
for pushing the boundaries creatively and artistically and Wellington's new gateway
represents the cultural capital's unique and exciting spirit.

Wellington based Design commentator Tommy Honey said: "It's very rare that this old
cynic sees a building and is converted to an enthusiast. When people go inside they will
realise the true value of this spectacular and supremely elegant building. People are
going to leave for the airport early just so they can hang there."

"Probably most memorable from a first look, was the high level of detailing which
successfully transforms an idea grown from a foam model into an architectural delight."
said Dennis Chippendale, Wellington Architect and committee member of the
Architecture Centre.

All gates in the new facility are capable of being used for international and domestic
services, creating a flexible space which is vitally important at Wellington Airport, which
accommodates 47,700 passengers per hectare of land, more than five times that of the
other large airports in NZ.

"This building is unique, dynamic and functional. The whole team is very proud of what
has been achieved." says Wellington International Airport CEO, Steven Fitzgerald.
Wellington Airport is ready to Rock!