Our regular feature, brought to you in association with Duty Free Global from Ireland, celebrates memorable scenes, moments, launches and campaigns related to the global aviation and travel retail sphere.
NEW ZEALAND/AOTEAROA. Today’s images come from Auckland Airport, where a large-scale Lego installation honours both its historic 1960s’ roots and its future vision of the terminal, in celebration of the airport’s 60th anniversary.
Unveiled on Wednesday (28 January) on level 1 in the International Terminal, the 3m x 1.8m Lego display highlights the airport’s infrastructure development programme, its most notable transformation since 1966.
Auckland Airport Chief Executive Carrie Hurihanganui said, “Auckland Airport is a story of community, connection and commerce.
“Today Auckland Airport is one of New Zealand’s most strategic assets, the primary gateway for New Zealanders to explore the world, an essential channel for trade and tourism, and a facilitator of relationships between families and friends.
“From the very first day of operations in 1966, New Zealanders have been massively enthusiastic about the travel opportunities made possible by advances in aircraft technology.
“Over 200,000 Aucklanders revelled in the excitement of a three-day air pageant in January 1966 to celebrate the opening and 60 years later that passion for travel remains as strong as ever.”
The airport’s NZ$5.7 billion programme is part of its ten-year capital plan through 2032, integrating the international and domestic terminals with advanced check-in and baggage facilities.
Hurihanganui added, “This programme spans the terminal, airfield and transport network, and is designed to strengthen capacity, resilience, efficiency, sustainability and the customer experience at New Zealand’s aviation gateway.
“We’re building for the future to serve the needs of travellers, airlines and the wider economy for decades to come.”
The activation taps into strong outbound travel demand in New Zealand, with the airport recording more than 2.3 million international departures in December.
Auckland Airport also underscored the scale of growth since 1966, with passenger numbers rising from 700,000 to 18.9 million in 2025, alongside two runway extensions to accommodate aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380. ✈
