The Lounge Opened in 2015, I visited the Air New Zealand Sydney International Lounge before my Singapore Airlines flight back to Singapore. This is the airline’s flagship lounge in Australia, and is designed by award-winning global architectural firm Gensler and boasts a seating capacity for 299 guests.

To get to the lounge, turn right and walk towards gate 59 after the customs check where the lounge is located on the mezzanine level above the departure gates.

I was greeted by a friendly staff the moment I entered the lounge. The first thing that struck me is the sheer space of the lounge, and it was fairly quiet during my visit on a Sunday afternoon.

There are many types of seating configuration which makes it ideal depending on your preference.

Solo travellers can opt for the seats with added privacy towards the end of the lounge. If you fancy, there are a few communal tables as well.

Shower wise, I managed to take a quick shower and I really like how clean and sleek the design of the shower is. It is spacious, and I appreciate a proper chair within the shower while using the hair dryer or even to place additional belongings.

For parents with kids, you will also be pleased that there is a small playroom where you can deposit your kids while you sip your champagne.

Who Can Access: Holders of Air New Zealand and Star Alliance First or Business Class tickets, Star Alliance Gold Members, and this include travellers in transit.

The Food The buffet spread is decent, and seem to offer healthier options as opposed to the Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge next door. Expect the likes of salad, vegetarian options, wide selection of fruits, bread and pastries, and a few cooked dishes. I wasn’t very impressed with the food quality on the whole.

Beverage wise, this seem to be the forte of the Air New Zealand Lounge. You can’t miss the bar when you walk in, and there is a good range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

I was most impressed with the coffee ordering system via a pad, where you simply choose your type of coffee, enter your name, and pick it up in a few minutes.

Rants The quality of the food is mediocre.

Overall Experience Visit this lounge in Sydney if you fancy a chic designed lounge space with good beverage options. Food wise, I prefer the quality over at the next door Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge though the facilities and ambience here is a few pars above Singapore Airlines.

Ranted by The Ranter