Meridian Energy has partnered with Auckland Airport to launch a state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) charging hub within the airport precinct that’s tailor-made for Aucklanders, even if they’re towing a caravan.
“We know that queuing for charging can be a pain point for New Zealand’s EV drivers, so we wanted to make sure that wouldn’t be a problem at this hub.”
The hub will feature five DC fast chargers, each with two charge points, that can deliver up to 160kW per connector. Two of the chargers include spaces with people with limited mobility, who will have priority over the chargers, as well as a larger drive-through charger for longer vehicles, or vehicles pulling a load.
“We’ve listened really closely to the EV community about their experiences using chargers around the country and what they’d like to see at charging sites,” says Joanna Yip, Meridian Product Manager.
“With so many outdoor options within a short drive of Auckland Airport, we’ve factored in what our customers may be up to and where they may be going, even if they’re towing a trailer, boat or caravan.”
The Auckland Airport hub will be the first site on Meridian’s EV charging network to be certified with 100% renewable energy through Meridian’s Renewable Energy Certificates. Through this scheme, all electricity used is matched with an equivalent amount of renewable energy from one of Meridian’s certified hydro stations or wind farms. The money paid to Meridian for these certificates is then invested into community decarbonisation projects, such as EVs and solar panels for community groups.
The chargers support both CCS and CHAdeMO standards and are compatible with a wide range of EV models. Meridian’s dynamic power allocation system optimises energy between the chargers, reducing queuing times and maximising the available power for users.
“We’re seeing an increasing demand from our customers for EV charging and we’re thrilled to bring a dedicated EV charging hub to the airport precinct,” says Auckland Airport’s Chief Commercial Officer Mark Thomson.
“We’re re-purposing an existing carpark, just off the main road heading into the terminal, as the area for Meridian’s EV charging space. It’s nice and close to the supermarket, cafes and retail stores, making it easy for customers to park and charge.
"This is part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability. We have an important role to play in lowering emissions across the precinct and this will boost the number of EV charging parks here at AKL when it opens.”
The hub is expected to open in late June 2025.
