Virgin Australia’s elite Velocity members jetting out of Auckland on a VA codeshare can finally enjoy access to Air New Zealand’s international lounge.
That’s already a standard inclusion at Air New Zealand’s other codeshare destinations across Australia and NZ. But in Auckland, Virgin Australia travellers were previously directed to use the third-party Strata lounge.
Lounge access is available to Business Class guests and Velocity’s Beyond, Platinum Plus, Platinum and Gold members. A limitation of this agreement means that only travellers flying on VA-marketed, Air New Zealand-operated flights are eligible for access.
But with Auckland Airport’s loungescape currently in flux, expect the rules to change once again when Air New Zealand finishes construction of its all-new Koru Premier and Koru Lounges.
Air New Zealand to revamp Auckland lounges
2026 is a big year for Air New Zealand, with the airline redeveloping its flagship Auckland lounge into two Koru Lounges. The airline expects to finish renovations by the end of 2027.
The Koru Premier Lounge will exclusively welcome Air New Zealand Business Class passengers. Koru Platinum (currently Airpoints Elite) and their nominees when travelling with the main member also make the cut.
What about Virgin Australia codeshare passengers booked in Air New Zealand Business Class? We expect they’ll also be welcome in this lounge, though that’s still to be confirmed.
Meanwhile, the separate Koru Lounge will be the home of elite frequent flyers. That list includes Koru Gold (currently Airpoints Gold), Star Alliance Gold and partner elites.
We also anticipate this list will include Velocity’s elite members flying the VA codeshare in Economy. Air New Zealand will reveal more information closer to the lounge opening.
Summing Up
If you’re a Virgin Australia member flying on Air New Zealand via codeshares, having access to the Air New Zealand lounge at Auckland will make your journey even more comfortable.
Parts of the existing lounge will be temporarily closed or affected during construction, but you’ll still be able to enter if you’re eligible. Travellers should check Air New Zealand’s website for any updates before flying. The airline also operates a temporary ‘Lookout Lounge’ during peak periods, which you might be sent to.
Eligible Velocity members flying on the VA codeshare can also access Air New Zealand lounges in Wellington, Christchurch, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth
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