Virgin Australia (VA) has announced the launch of a new international lounge network in Australia and New Zealand, with seven international lounges rolling out from the end of October. This will expand on VA’s domestic lounge network that consists of 12 premium lounges across the country.
The international lounges in Australia will be located in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne and in New Zealand. The international lounges will be located in Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown and Wellington.
VA is collaborating with award-winning British lounge specialist, No1 Lounges, on the international lounges located in Australia to create a unique experience for travellers.
Virgin Australia Group Executive, Rob Sharp, said the airline was thrilled to provide an improved lounge experience for guests travelling overseas.
“Together with our partners, we fly to more than 400 international destinations and we know our guests are going to be delighted by these international lounges, which will feature stylish new design aesthetics and service enhancements,” Mr Sharp said.
“In recent months we’ve launched our Sydney to Hong Kong route and announced two new services into New Zealand, so guests are going to really benefit from the new international lounges which will open in the next month.”
The carrier said that for the first time, eligible Velocity and lounge members will have access to international lounges with a VA flair.
Brisbane
The brand new ‘My Lounge’ will be the home of VA at Brisbane’s international terminal. Specially designed in the style of a loft apartment, ‘My Lounge’ provides social lounging spaces within a relaxed, contemporary environment, with a games room and seating for more than 100 guests. The lounge will offer a grazing menu of healthy and indulgent choices, barista coffee and a bar.
Melbourne and Sydney
The Melbourne and Sydney international lounges will be part of No1 Lounges’ new international brand, ‘The House’. The House collection, created in collaboration with Etihad Airways, will be the home of VA. The lounge will provide a choice of self-service and as well as a la carte dining throughout the day. The fully tended bar will offer everything from freshly prepared juices and smoothies, a range of coffee options from around the world, cocktails, champagne and a selection of great Australian wines.
New Zealand
Eligible VA guests flying to Australia from Queenstown and Christchurch are welcome to use the Manaia Lounge, and guests flying from Auckland to Australia and the Pacific Islands can visit the award-winning Strata Lounge. The shared lounges include self-service dining with hot and cold items, a self-service bar with spirits and high-speed WiFi. A VA lounge will also be opening in Wellington in the next few months.
Velocity Platinum, Gold members and VA Business Class guests will have access to all of the new international lounges, and VA Lounge members will have access to the international lounges for travel between Australia and New Zealand.