Air New Zealand International Lounge
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The Australian aviation market might be dominated by flag carrier Qantas, a oneworld member, but Brisbane Airport is nevertheless home to two Star Alliance lounges: an Air New Zealand Lounge and a Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge.
In theory, Star Alliance premium customers can use either club, and both lounges are conveniently located opposite each other on the mezzanine level above gates 81-82. However, the Singapore Airlines Lounge is only open ahead of Singapore Airlines departures, while the Air New Zealand lounge is open all day—Air New Zealand does not even post opening hours, stating instead that the club is open prior to the first flight, and until the last flight. The bright and airy Air New Zealand Lounge is therefore the de facto Star Alliance Lounge and the go-to place for the bulk of Star Alliance Gold members and Business class customers.
Air New Zealand International Lounge – Brisbane (BNE)
Air New Zealand International Lounge BNE design
Opened in March 2016, the airy and luminous Air New Zealand International Lounge at Brisbane airport occupies prime real estate. Spanning over 2,500 square feet (230 square meters), the club features soaring ceilings and two dramatic window walls, with panoramic views over the airport grounds and the Brisbane CBD in the distance.
The lounge sports Air New Zealand’s signature design: a bold ensemble dominated by sparkling white surfaces, clean lines, and pops of vivid pink tones. The concept has merits—it’s fresh and memorable, and a good fit for a bright and airy space. But it’s also somewhat sterile and soulless, and perhaps already a generation behind. Modern airport lounge design tends to emphasize residential spaces with a more soothing ambiance that helps offset the stress of travel.
White tones and pops of pink colors dominate the color Air New Zealand International Lounge Brisbane color palette.
While the Air New Zealand Lounge won’t earn any awards in the mood lighting department, it is remarkably functional and efficient. Guests will find a vast range of seating options catering to all types of travelers. There are booths with dining tables, cozy recessed nooks, a large communal table, and plenty of solo seats with side consoles. Power and USB ports are available at every seat, and there are also a number of wireless charging points.
Nooks and seating area at the Air New Zealand International Lounge Brisbane
The dramatic bar and buffet area is the focal point of the design. Geometric patterns form a backdrop against the floor-to-ceiling windows. A sculptural light fixture accentuates the ensemble and dominates the dining area.
The Air New Zealand International Lounge Brisbane sports a bold and bright design.
Throughout the lounge, vintage Air New Zealand posters celebrate the airline’s storied history and add a more subdued and authentic touch to the otherwise resolutely modern ensemble.
Vintage airline posters at the Air New Zealand Lounge BNE
Air New Zealand International Lounge BNE amenities
Despite the proximity between Brisbane and New Zealand, the Air New Zealand International Lounge at Brisbane airport boasts a full array of international-grade amenities.
You’ll find a generous hot and cold buffet with a variety of snacks, hors d’oeuvres, hot entrees, and sweets. The breakfast service is remarkably elaborate; highlights include coconut chia seed pudding, mango yoghurt, smoothies, muesli, and a full traditional English breakfast.
Air New Zealand International Lounge Brisbane cold breakfast offerings
All beverages are self-served. The lounge features a soda fountain, an espresso machine, and a modest wine and liquor selection—sparkling wine, beer, and a handful of liquor options including Absolut Vodka and Bombay Sapphire.
Espresso machine at the Air New Zealand Lounge Brisbane Airport
Guests who wish to freshen up will find two bright and spacious shower rooms outfitted with a toilet, a sink, a rain shower, a convenient rolling stool, and a hair dryer. However, the showers aren’t cleaned in between each use, which is a bit shocking for a business class lounge. The courtesy (or lack thereof) of every guest will make or break the experience.
Air New Zealand International Lounge BNE shower room
The Air New Zealand Lounge also sports a fun and colorful kid’s corner outfitted with bean bags, toys, and games. Other amenities include a printer/copier, and a secure baggage storage room.
Playroom at the Air New Zealand International Lounge Brisbane Airport
Air New Zealand International Lounge BNE bottom line
The Air New Zealand International Lounge at Brisbane airport is an excellent lounge for its primary audience: travelers who fly the relatively short hop between Australia and New Zealand. Air New Zealand offers a well-rounded set of amenities, including hot meals, showers, business facilities, and charging points.
Intercontinental travelers may have a more nuanced opinion. While the Air New Zealand Lounge delivers on all the fundamentals, the bold décor is a bit overwhelming, the background music is slightly too loud, the crowds can be oppressive at peak times, the alcoholic beverage selection is modest, and there are a few service flaws—the fact that the showers aren’t cleaned in between guests is disheartening at a business class lounge.
The Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge has a more elaborate and intimate ambiance, and the service is more polished—as one would expect from Singapore’s flag carrier. But unlike the Singapore Airlines Lounge, the Air New Zealand Lounge is open throughout the day. Besides, it’s more modern and the views don’t compare. Gazing at the Brisbane CBD at sunset is a lovely experience ahead of a long flight.
- The daylight and views of the Brisbane CBD.
- The generous hot and cold buffet.
- The wireless charging points.
- The background music.
- The fact that the showers aren’t serviced in between uses.
Air New Zealand International Lounge at Brisbane (BNE) welcomes:
- Air New Zealand Airpoints Gold and Elite members departing on:
- a same-day Air New Zealand flight.
- an eligible same-day Virgin Australia flight
- a same-day flight operated by Cathay Pacific with an Air New Zealand flight number between Auckland and Hong Kong.
- a same-day Singapore Airlines flight from Auckland or Christchurch with an Air New Zealand flight number.
- Airpoints Elite members may bring one guest when travelling on Star Alliance flights, and up to five guests when travelling on Air New Zealand flights.
- Air New Zealand Koru Club members departing on a same-day Air New Zealand flight (+1 guest.) Koru members flying on a Star Alliance partner airline may purchase access: up to 4 hrs $25; 4 hrs or more $45.
- Air New Zealand international Business Class passengers departing on a same-day flight.
- Star Alliance Gold passengers departing on a same-day Air New Zealand or Star Alliance flight in any class of service (+1 guest)
- Star Alliance Business Class and First Class passengers departing on a same-day Air New Zealand or Star Alliance flight (+1 guest)
- United Club members departing on a Star Alliance flight (+1 guest)
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Club members departing on a Star Alliance flight (+1 guest)
- All passengers departing on a same-day Air New Zealand flight, for a fee: up to 4 hours $35; 4 hours or more $55.
Guests:
- Air New Zealand Airpoints Gold members may bring one guest; Elite members may bring up to five guests.
- Extra guest of Gold, Elite & Koru passengers: up to 4 hours $25; 4 hours or more $45.
- Guests must be departing on a same-day Air New Zealand flight.
Cards accepted
Air Canada Maple Leaf Club Worldwide
When flying a Star Alliance member airline.
United Club
When flying a Star Alliance member airline.
3.5 / 5, based on 2 reviews
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