The Rock: a new Wellington icon?

It was a big week for Wellington tourism, with the city being rated "Coolest Little Capital in the World” by Lonely Planet, and 4^th best city to visit in its 2011 guide. This is excellent news for Wellington Airport and its major shareholder Infratil, who are planning for growing visitor numbers. As a member of the Positively Wellington Tourism Board, Ruth has more than a passing interest, as well.

Staunch Wellingtonian Lloyd Morrison is an Infratil director. He says "the Rock is fantastic! It reflects the airport’s location on Wellington’s unique south coast, pushes new design boundaries and yet is extraordinarily functional and cost effective.

"By doubling the departure lounge, all passengers will benefit from the improved space and reduced processing times, and we are confident The Rock will become another of Wellington’s iconic and sometimes challenging features like The Beehive, The Cake Tin and the Bucket Fountain.”

Ruth says "for a morning tea event, we offered a combination of classics (eg Roast Chicken, Herb Stuffing and Crispy Bacon Sandwiches) and more creative finger food (eg Honey Cones filled with Whipped Goat's Cheese and Caramelised Hazelnuts) to suit all tastes.

Airport PR and Marketing advisor Kat Lintott reported that guests appreciated the creativity and flavours of the food, adding that the service was "smooth and professional”.

The Rock completes a dynamic five year programme to increase capacity to meet growing demand for the capital’s airport. The new lounge will allow the airport to process up to 1000 passengers per hour.