Auckland Airport, 21 March 2016 - As part of its 50th anniversary celebrations, Auckland Airport is offering a group of 150 lucky New Zealanders the opportunity in April to experience first-hand a behind-the-scenes look at the country’s largest airport.
Jason Delamore, Auckland Airport’s general manager of marketing and technology, says the idea of showcasing the activities that take place after passengers pass through security screening was a response to the keen interest the public takes in aviation, and in the many services needed to deliver safe and enjoyable travel.
“There are many things that go on behind-the-scenes at an airport that only those of us who work here get to see. We think Kiwis will be fascinated to understand more about what it takes to keep our airport running safely and efficiently.”
“For aviation enthusiasts, this is a unique and possibly once-in-a-lifetime experience. Those who are lucky enough to have a seat on the tour will have rare views of the Airport Emergency Service station, the fire training ground and rescue fire training school and the airport’s marine rescue equipment and hovercrafts. They will also see aircraft landing, taking off and taxiing up close – much closer than they’ve seen before.”
“The tour will be a family-friendly event and we encourage family groups with children over the age of five to put their names forward,” says Mr Delamore. “We’re really looking forward to this opportunity to take 150 Kiwis back-stage at our busy airport to show what it takes to deliver a great customer experience.”
To be in the draw for one of the 150 places available on the tour, people need to visit www.aucklandairport.co.nz/airsidetour, provide their details and share a special Auckland Airport memory. A random draw will determine the winners who will be offered places on tours on Saturday 16 April 2016. Anyone around the country can enter the draw. However, winners are responsible for their travel to the airport.
“The 50-year celebration occurs at a time when Auckland Airport is preparing for significant growth in visitor numbers and global air travel.”
“When Auckland Airport opened in 1966 it had 700,000 passengers in its first year. Fifty years on, we welcome 16 million passengers a year, and we expect this number to grow to as many as 40 million in 2044.”
“Our 50th anniversary is an opportunity for New Zealanders to better understand the contribution that Auckland Airport makes, not just to the Auckland region but to New Zealand as a whole,” says Mr Delamore.
More information about Auckland Airport’s 50th anniversary is available online at aucklandairport.co.nz/50years
