The airline is also adding more than 17000 additional seats in and out of Hawke’s Bay Airport from mid-August to October

Air New Zealand is promising healthier food, more space and a dedicated café as it opens its new regional lounge at Napier Airport.

The facility will enable catering for around 130 passengers including a self-service buffet area and drinks station as well as dedicated business and quiet areas.

The lounge is open to all Airpoints Elite, Gold and Elite Partner and Koru members departing on an Air New Zealand flight.

Leanne Geraghty, the airline’s chief customer and sales officer, said: “We know our customers travel for a myriad of reasons, those travelling for business may want a quiet space to get some work done before flying, others to sit, relax and enjoy a pre-flight drink, this insight was at the heart of the new lounge design. With many Kiwis continuing to explore all New Zealand has to offer, and Hawkes Bay proving a popular corner of the country, it’s the perfect time to open the doors and welcome customers to our new lounge space.”

These new amenities follow the opening of other, new regional lounges including Nelson and New Plymouth which form part of an investment the airline is making in regional lounges across the country.