Global air cargo and ground services giant Swissport has officially launched operations at its new Auckland Cargo Centre, strengthening its regional network across Asia-Pacific.
Located with direct airside access via Checkpoint Delta, the 8,500-square-metre facility is the first cargo terminal in Auckland with direct access to the airfield, enabling faster and more efficient freight transfer. The new site supports both import and export cargo, with a strong focus on speed, transparency, and security.
“The team has spent the past six months getting ready to set a new benchmark in New Zealand for operational excellence and customer service in air cargo handling,” says Joel Greig, Swissport General Manager of Cargo Operations in New Zealand and Australia.
“We are proud to bring Swissport’s global expertise to Auckland and look forward to building strong partnerships with our airline and freight forwarding customers.”
The facility includes weather-protected receipt and dispatch areas, advanced digital systems, and Auckland Airport’s largest X-ray machine, alongside the latest in cargo screening and surveillance technology. An integrated CCTV network of 46 cameras provides customers with real-time cargo visibility.
Swissport’s Auckland site is also licenced as a Customs Controlled Area and authorised by MPI as a Transitional Facility, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements for secure handling and inspection of shipments. It includes significant cold chain capacity, supporting New Zealand’s key export sectors such as pharmaceuticals, seafood, meat and fresh produce.
Cargo Manager, Harry Kennedy.
“Our focus is on adaptability, collaboration, and delivering tangible benefits to customers – whether through faster turnaround times, enhanced transparency, or greater reliability,” adds Greig.
“We’re here to raise the standard for air cargo handling in New Zealand.”
The launch comes as the global air cargo market continues to grow, driven by economic expansion in South Asia, China, Southeast Asia, and Africa, alongside the ongoing e-commerce boom.
Swissport handled around 5 million tonnes of air freight globally in 2024, and serves 279 airports in 45 countries, employing over 61,000 staff. Several of its cargo warehouses are certified for pharmaceutical logistics under IATA CEIV Pharma and the UK’s MHRA standards.
With its Auckland facility now fully operational, Swissport aims to play a pivotal role in supporting New Zealand’s export growth and streamlining global supply chains through the region.
