Auckland Airport celebrates launch of new world-class retail area

A symbolic structure, ‘Pou Manawa’, now at the heart of the new retail space

Auckland Airport international terminal’s new-look departure retail space was officially launched today at a ceremony highlighted by the unveiling of its architectural and audio-visual showpiece, a symbolic tree-like structure to be known as ‘Pou Manawa’.

Mayor of Auckland, His Worship Len Brown, and the Associate Minister for Transport, Nathan Guy, together pulled back a set of aircraft cockpit thrust levers to power up the sound and lights of Pou Manawa in a special launch celebration at the new retail hub.

Located within the international departures area, the development combines a world class retail experience with an expanded range of top quality retail outlets, food options and new local and international brands. 

“The whole area has been rebuilt and while favourites such as JR Duty Free, DFS Duty Free, adidas and Artport still remain they have been joined by local and international favourites such as Apple, Swatch, Moët & Chandon, MAC Cosmetics and Icebreaker,” said Adrian Littlewood, General Manager Retail, Auckland Airport.

“We also have a number of new food and beverage offerings including Hayama Sushi and Valentino’s Gelato which Aucklanders will recall as an institution of the downtown ferry building. Additionally we’re very excited to announce that in early 2011 one of Auckland’s favourite delicatessens’, Zarbo, will be joining the Auckland Airport retail family,” he continued.

“Around 18.6 million people spend time in the Auckland Airport terminals per year; that’s more than the busiest malls in New Zealand. The ongoing evolution of the retail departures area ensures that travellers will leave with a positive view of their time here, will encourage their friends to travel to our shores and will hopefully choose to return themselves,” added Littlewood.

The celebration, hosted by screen actor Temuera Morrison, featured the launch and inaugural full viewing of Pou Manawa.

Designed by Ignite Architects in conjunction with artist Michael Knapp, Pou Manawa stands nine metres high and its billowing canopy, featuring a cycle of different colours, covers a fabric surface area of 577 square metres. Traditional Maori designs by Kingi Gilbert and created using projectors and LED lighting, dance across Pou Manawa to bespoke music by New Zealand artists Rewi Spraggon and Riki Bennett. The continuously rotating 360 degree images depict carvings, nature and birds and symbolise travel, flight, voyaging and movement across vast expanses, oceans and airways; guidance and hospitality.

Littlewood said of the installation which will become a memorable feature  for all those passing through Auckland Airport, “We are providing a symbolic centre-piece so passengers can not only browse and shop but also relax, unwind and reflect in a uniquely New Zealand way. Pou Manawa is the heart of the retail centre and stands proud where people gather.”