Transforming a 1960s airport into a modern, regional gateway

Te Hono New Plymouth Airport's terminal has been transformed from a 1960's structure into a spacious, modern building. It now forms an attractive gateway to the majestic Taranaki region of Aotearoa New Zealand.

New Plymouth Airport was originally built in 1966 to service 50,000 passengers annually. With 411,000 passengers passing through the airport in 2016, Chief Executive, Wayne Wootton, saw the need for a new terminal as an opportunity to think strategically about its future needs and role as “the gateway to the Taranaki region”.

Working with key stakeholders including the local council and local iwi (Māori custodians) Puketapu Hapū, Beca developed a design for the new terminal which truly reflects the unique identity of the Taranaki region, integrating key cultural narratives throughout the building such as spiritual wall artwork and traditional sculptures.

The functionality of the terminal was also carefully considered, with VR technology used to engage in comprehensive consultation with stakeholders Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Avsec and café owners, amongst others.

In September 2016, Beca’s design for a distinctive gateway building was unanimously approved by New Plymouth District Council. In July 2017 responsibility for the successful delivery of the project was handed to the newly formed Airport company, Papa Rererangi I Puketapu Ltd (PRIP). With construction now complete, PRIP and Beca worked hard to deliver a world-class regional airport terminal which opened to the public in March 2020.

Take an interactive tour of Te Hono New Plymouth Airport Terminal as it was being designed, here!

Awards

• 2021 ACE New Zealand Awards - Merit & Community Award
• 2021 Prix Versailles, Special Prize Exteriors - Airports
• 2020 Best Design Awards, Toitanga - Gold pin

Image Credits: Autex & New Plymouth Airport, 2020