The Manaia Lounge at Christchurch Airport offers a quiet, comfortable retreat for travellers looking to relax before their flight. With complimentary food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and cosy seating, it’s a welcoming space to unwind. Whether travelling for business or leisure, this Plaza-Premium Lounge adds a touch of comfort and convenience. It serves as the business class lounge for Emirates, Qantas, Jetstar, Fiji Airways and China Southern Airlines. Lounge access may also be purchased at the door subject to availability.

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At the end of my New Zealand trip I travelled back to Sydney from Dunedin, where I’ve was visiting my friend Colleen. After a fantastic time in Auckland, Dunedin, and our unforgettable trip to stunning Stewart Island / Rakiura, it’s time to head home. I am flying the Christchurch to Sydney sector to Business Class on QANTAS, which also granted me lounge access in Christchurch.

Located airside near gate 29, the lounge is easy to find. I arrive a full three hours before my flight, and at first, it’s filled mostly with Fiji Airways passengers heading to Nadi. Soon after, it empties out and I’m the only one left! It feels oddly quiet, with just the soft chatter of the staff in the background. I can’t help but wonder… do they even realise I’m still here? Hehehe…

The lounge is divided into three distinct areas: a zone with lounge chairs for relaxation…

…a work friendly space equipped with charging points…

…and a dining section with close access to food and drinks.

There’s also a bathroom area available. I didn’t use it myself, nor did I see anyone else, but it’s certainly handy for travellers arriving after a long journey to the airport.

Although I had come across a few blog reviews that were less favourable than my own experience, I found the food selection to be varied and well rounded, offering something to suit everyone’s taste. Fresh ham and cheese or egg sandwiches, smoked salmon on blini’s and a variety of muffins and slices of cake.

If the pre-made sandwiches don’t appeal, you can build your own using the selection of salami, ham, cheeses, and various breads, perfect for creating a fresh sandwich or even a toastie. There are also crudités and corn chips available, served with a variety of dips for something lighter.

From the bain-marie, the hot food selection featured curried sausages—which I decided to skip—and home style sausage rolls, which offered a classic comfort food option for those wanting something warm and hearty.

On this crisp winter’s day, soup might be just the thing. Today’s option was a rich and thick looking pumpkin soup, served with a choice of fresh bread rolls or warm, cheesy bread.

There is, what I consider for some lounge, a generous range of drinks available, including a variety of spirits with mixers, an assortment of teas and freshly brewed coffee, plus a well stocked selection of beers, ciders, and wines to enjoy.

I spotted four different varieties of white wines available, including a sparkling. I sampled a few, but the standout for me was the 2024 Durvillea Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough, crisp, vibrant, and retailing around NZD25 per bottle. While I typically prefer Chardonnay, I believe New Zealand produces some of the finest Savvy B’s in the world.

I began by settling into the lounge area with a light plate of cold cuts, including smoked salmon and sandwich points as an easy tasty start. However, I quickly realised there were no power outlets nearby, and all my devices were in need of a recharge, so I move to the working area.

I made myself a plate of vegetarian nachos using the sturdy corn chips on offer, and they were surprisingly tasty. The jalapeños added a nice kick without being too fiery, though a handful of grated cheese would have taken the nachos to the next level.

At first glance, the sausage rolls don’t look all that appealing, they seem a bit plain and uninspired. However, once I try one, I’m pleasantly surprised by how tasty they actually are. After enjoying a couple of glasses of wine, I suddenly find myself craving something sweet to balance it out, so I give in and grab a can of Coke. It’s not the most glamorous choice, but it hits the spot perfectly.

I quite enjoyed my few hours here at the Manaia Lounge. While it may not be the most luxurious lounge out there, it offered a comfortable and relaxed space with decent food, friendly service, and a quiet place to unwind before my flight.

Plaza Premium Manaia Lounge Christchurch

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