Sinclair Knight Merz staff were engaged to assist with the development of a land use master plan for Auckland International Airport. The airport is a major contributor to New Zealand’s economy, and enjoys strong growth in passenger and freight movements.
Services provided by Sinclair Knight Merz staff included project management and coordination, confirmation of traffic demands, a review of town planning and environmental factors relevant to airport development, airport access studies, second runway location definition, noise impact studies, control tower location for the second runway, and a preliminary master grading exercise for the second runway and future terminal developments. Associated commercial and business development opportunities were also an important aspect.
Preliminary concepts of the plan, which define the form and shape of airport development for the ensuing three decades or more, were produced for discussion with airport users, in particular the international airlines. The consultation process included presentations of ideas by the consultants and debate of comments and ideas from airport users at workshops.
The initial studies resulted in the definition of an airport land use plan and model. Further studies then detailed the development of terminals, freight centres, airline facilities, access provision, service and environmental protection measures, and other commercial developments.
More recently, Sinclair Knight Merz was commissioned to update the land use development plan to incorporate latest developments of the airports' growth. Studies were carried out to detail the layout and drainage of the future aprons and taxiways.