By Adam Ray
Discount airline Jetstar says passengers can drink and eat all they like at its new airport lounge in Auckland – with a few catches.
The new pay-as-you-go facility, Akarana Lounge, opened this week to compete directly with Air New Zealand’s Koru Lounge.
“People do expect a low-cost model, but we’ve gone simplistic, minimalistic – but at the same time, comfortable,” says Jetstar Operations Manager Margaret Staite.
The lounge costs $10 if booked beforehand, or $15 on the day, for food, drink, newspapers, magazines, internet and even showers.
“If you’re on a business trip or just want to chill out beforehand, it’s up there with international standards,” says passenger Caleb Lewis.
The fridge is filled with more Australian beer than New Zealand, and the wine is cheap and cheerful. Visitors can drink all they like, “within reason”, Ms Staite says.
Unlike Air New Zealand, Jetstar doesn’t offer parking.
But Ms Staite says Jetstar is still expecting the lounge to be busy.
“Particularly those connecting off international carriers, it gives them a cost-effective place to rest.”
The Akarana Lounge will no doubt appeal to passengers who are sick of the cost of airline food, because a snack and drink at the airport is likely to cost upwards of $10 anyway.
3 News