Several seating zones offer space to relax or work, with natural light and a limited view of the apron. Lounge chairs are less convenient for dining or laptop use than the tables in the dining area.
The self-service buffet combines salads and other cold items with a small selection of hot dishes. Beer, wine, spirits and barista-made coffee are available, though the food and drink range varies.
Showers with towels, Wi-Fi, charging outlets and a small business area cover the main preflight needs. There is no à la carte dining or dedicated sleeping area.
The main room, bathrooms and showers are generally orderly and well maintained. Evidence from the busiest departure periods is more limited.
The Air New Zealand Lounge serves eligible international passengers on the ground floor of Terminal 2, after security. Qualifying Air New Zealand travellers and eligible Star Alliance premium-cabin and Gold-status passengers can enter. United Club All Access membership may also qualify with an eligible departure; an ordinary United Club membership or credit card should not be treated as automatic access.
The lounge has several areas for sitting, eating and working. Large windows bring in daylight and look toward the apron beneath the terminal canopy, although the aircraft view is limited. Quieter corners offer an alternative to the central seating. There is generally room to spread out, but a lounge chair and side table are less practical for a laptop or meal than a dining table.
A self-service buffet offers salads, fruit, sandwiches and a few hot dishes rather than made-to-order dining. Two drinks stations provide refreshments, including beer and wine, while barista-made coffee is available. The cold selection provides useful lighter options; the range of hot food and alcoholic drinks can vary.
Showers, towels, toilets, Wi-Fi and charging outlets make the lounge useful before a longer flight. A small business area adds another place to work. Bathrooms and showers are generally clean and the main room orderly, although conditions depend on the departure period. The lounge is best suited to a shower, a light meal or some quiet time before departure, rather than a restaurant-style dining experience.
