The 12 Best Airport Lounges in the South Pacific and Oceania [2024]

Like little jewels in a vast blue sea, the South Pacific and Oceania are composed of islands dotting the middle of the Pacific. Some of the most prominent ones include Australia, French Polynesia, Micronesia, New Zealand, and so many more!

These stunning islands are a favorite vacation spot for many. Hence, it’s no surprise to find fantastic airport lounges around.

If you’re ready to make your way to this side of the planet, make sure to spend some time at the best airport lounges in the South Pacific and Oceania.

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1. Qantas International First Lounge, Sydney

Qantas International First Lounge, Sydney. Image Credit: Marc-Newson

Airport: Sydney International Airport (SYD)
Location: Terminal 1, Up the escalator towards Level 3
Opening Hours: Open Daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Considered one of the most stylish first-class lounges in Sydney, the Qantas International First Lounge is a must-visit for luxury flyers everywhere. In fact, it’s even considered among the best airport lounges in the world. 

As you walk towards the escalators, you’re greeted by a striking wall of live greenery. Head upstairs and you’ll find floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the tarmac and the iconic Sydney Harbor in the far distance. Because the lounge is a long strip, it’s divided into different sections – one for lounging and the other for dining.

Walk to one side and you’ll find the Qantas marble bar where you can sip premium drinks or grab delicious coffee. For food, the menu is by celebrity chef, Neil Perry. This includes signature self-serve and à la carte options. To keep from getting tired, it’s even refreshed seasonally.

On the other hand, the wines are exclusively from Aussie producers. As for the bubbly, the selection of four non-vintage champagnes includes Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut NV and Taittinger Brut Reserve NV.

If you’re flying First in Qantas, expect a call the day before from the concierge. You’ll be asked if you would like a complimentary session at the Qantas First Lounge Spa. Choose from foot massages, neck massage, or shoulder massage. The lounge uses high-end LaGaia items.

For those who want to freshen up, the lounge has three shower suites decked in marble and premium toiletries. Other amenities include a library, a small business and work area, and a few meeting rooms.

Access: The Qantas First Class Lounge is open to all Qantas First guests. They have also recently expanded to accommodate passengers in Qantas Business, Qantas Club Members as well as those holding Qantas Gold Frequent Flyer membership. Guests with Oneworld equivalent status can also access this lounge.

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2. Qantas International First Lounge, Melbourne

Qantas International First Lounge, Melbourne. Image Credit: Executive Traveller

Airport: Melbourne International Airport (MEL)
Location: Airside, Level 3, By the escalator close to Gate 9 and Gate 10
Opening Hours: Daily from 4:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m.

Qantas has similar branding for almost all of its lounges. This one in Melbourne also comes with the Qantas signature marble and stone flooring together with luxurious leather sofas and chairs. It creates a luxurious ambiance to the space, allowing guests to relax as they await their flight.

The seating is composed of walled-off sections so you experience a bit more privacy compared to the business lounge. Large windows offer a fantastic view of the tarmac while also bathing the area with plenty of natural light in the daytime.

A private meeting and conference room is open for business guests. Those looking for a quick shower can use the private shower suites in the lounge. The showers come covered in warm stone marble with sleek glass-enclosed shower rooms and signature La Gaia bath products.

There’s a private restaurant and dining space at the Qantas First Lounge in Melbourne, perfect for that touch of exclusivity. There’s no buffet served at the moment so everything is à la carte. The buffet will return, however, along with a fresh menu. Expect top-shelf liquor and delicious coffee at the lounge too.

Access: Qantas First guests can freely access the lounge. Qantas is also allowing Oneworld and Platinum Qantas Frequent Flyer access to the lounge.

3. Qantas Domestic Business Lounge, Brisbane

Qantas Domestic Business Lounge, Brisbane. Image Credit: Qantas

Airport: Brisbane International Airport (BNE)
Location: Airside, Level 3 and 4
Opening Hours: 5:00 a.m. to 8:15 p.m

First opened in 2017, the Qantas Business Lounge in Brisbane International is among the newest Qantas lounges opened in the area. What’s great with this lounge is that from the domestic terminal, guests can get Premium Lounge Entry, complete with security check-in so you don’t have to go through the main airport terminal.

The lounge is bright and spacious with several zones designated for working, relaxing, and dining. Beautiful leather chairs in hues of rust orange and deep browns decorate the space, along with bar seats and tables for working.

If you’re feeling hungry, the lounge has a “snacking station” filled with both hot and cold meals. There’s a menu on display so you can order or simply indulge in the plated items that are ready to go. There are also “tray rounds” or unique dishes served and offered to those already at the dining area by the staff.

If you want delicious barista-made coffee, just order from the drinks station. Speaking of drinks, the bar area officially opens at noontime. Try unique cocktails or maybe grab wine, spirits, or other drinks.

Other areas to explore include the business area with its ample USB and power outlets. There are also circular tables for larger groups traveling together. A shower station is also onsite in case you want to quickly freshen up before travel.

Access: This lounge is open to all Qantas Business Class guests, Qantas Platinum and Platinum One frequent flyer holders as well as Oneworld Emerald members.

4. The House, Melbourne

The House, Melbourne. Image Credit: API News

Airport: Melbourne International Airport (MEL) 
Location: Airside, Terminal 2, Third Floor
Opening Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The House might not be familiar to some but it was once Etihad’s premium lounge. No1 Lounges, a popular premium lounge operator, has also taken over the management.

Despite the name change, guests can still spot the distinctive Etihad branding outside. This makes it easy for travelers to spot the lounge. Inside, The House can accommodate up to 114 guests with areas divided for families, dining, relaxation, and even a dedicated soundproofed zone for kids.

Stylish seats are covered in high-quality Poltrona Frau Italian leather (the same leather you’ll find on Ferrari seats.) Large windows overlooking the tarmac allow tons of light and serve as a great view for planespotting when sitting on the bar.

An exclusive room is found at the end of the lounge too. This is reserved for VIP guests such as celebrities and heads of state.

Meanwhile, food is served in two main service areas. One serves a buffet and the other offers all-day dining. You can pick from an à la carte menu or indulge in the buffet selection. The Etihad Bar also comes with 90 types of spirits and wines. However, if you’re a coffee-lover, you might want to avail yourself of the barista service.

One signature amenity is the luggage lockers for guests. This is the first thing you’ll see as you walk in. It makes staying in the lounge convenient since you don’t have to lug around your trolley or bump into anybody else’s when you’re inside. Modern showers and bathrooms are provided with bath toiletries too.

Finally, check out the business space or the colorful kid zone. The former is great for working while the latter is ideal if you want to entertain the kids for a while. There’s also a dedicated prayer room.

Access: Access is available for Etihad First and Business Class passengers, including Virgin Australia Business guests. Velocity Gold or Platinum Frequent Flyers on Virgin Australia or Etihad can also enter. Meanwhile, Priority Pass memberships are also accepted. Day passes cost $80 per adult is available as well.

5. Singapore Airlines SilverKris First Lounge, Sydney

Singapore Airlines SilverKris First Lounge, Sydney. Image Credit: Executive Traveller

Airport: Sydney International Airport (SYD) 
Location: Airside, Pier C (close to Gates 50-63)
Opening Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Discreetly located behind a sliding door close to the reception counter, you’ll need to be buzzed in by the receptionist to enter this exclusive lounge. The KrisFlyer lounger is its own self-contained space and features a refined elegance Singapore Airlines is known for.

Thick, plush carpets coupled with stylish wood floors and comfortable seats decorate the room. For work privacy, there are eight productivity pods with stylish yellow leather upholstery. Throne seats are decked in rich, gold fabric with striking views of the outside.

Once you’re ready to eat, dining is on-demand with waitstaff on the ready. The menu has been expanded after the lounge’s reopening. One favorite is the Singapore Laksa. There’s also an abundant list of drinks to choose from, including brewed coffee, wines, champagne, and spirits. The current drink of choice offered in the lounge is the GH Mumm.

There’s complimentary Wi-Fi along with convenient outlets nearly everywhere. When freshening up, you can indulge in any of the two shower suites. These are spacious and come with a glass-walled shower and Lalique Neroli bath products.

Access: Singapore First passengers or equivalent Star Alliance flyers get exclusive access to this stylish lounge in Sydney. Those holding Solitaire PPS Club status flying under different classes can also enter.

6. American Express Lounge, Sydney

American Express Lounge, Sydney. Image Credit: iA Design

Airport: Sydney International Airport (SYD)
Location: Termina 1, Airside, Next to Gate 24
Opening Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

One of the greatest perks about the American Express Lounge in Sydney is that you don’t have to worry about which airline you’re flying – or what class for that matter. As long as you have a qualified American Express credit card (see specific cards below), you can spend time inside the lounge and relax.

The lounge itself is modern and stylish. Stone and marble are paired with leather seats and patterned carpets for that chic, contemporary vibe. Large windows are off to one side, with choice seats offering a face-to-face view of parking planes on the apron.

There are three distinct zones, one for relaxing and lounging; another social area with workbenches and self-serve drinks; and then the public dining area.

Seats are unique and vary, ranging from a large snake-like sofa, private banquettes with outlets, solo leather tub chairs, and large communal seating.

For food, what’s unique is there are live cooking stations onsite. At certain times of the day, the chefs are in full view as they prepare meals. A breakfast spread consists of basics like cereal, bread, yogurt, fruit, etc. Special barista brewed coffee is available including beer on tap, cocktails, wine, and spirits.

A new addition to the Amex lounge scene is the shower suites. There are three of them available and each one is bespoke with signature Amex logos. Inside these suites, you’ll find white and gray marble with glass-enclosed showers and premium L’Occitane toiletries.

Wi-Fi is on offer too. It’s fast and great for anyone who wants to stream movies or get some work done while on the lounge.

Access: Access to the American Express Sydney Lounge is open to all cardholders of the Platinum-flavored or Centurion-flavored card products.

7. Virgin Australia Lounge, Melbourne

Virgin Australia Lounge, Melbourne. Image Credit: Virgin Australia

Airport: Melbourne International Airport
Location: Terminal 3, (Just before the security gate)
Opening Hours: 4:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Since they closed in 2020, Virgin Australia’s Melbourne lounge has finally opened its doors, welcoming back guests flying locally or internationally. The lounge can accommodate up to 500 guests at any one time and has unique seats dedicated to solo or group travelers.

A color palette of grays, blues, and burgundies with beautiful teal shades decorates the room. On the ceiling is Virgin’s leaf pattern, a signature touch for the brand. Large windows flood in the sunshine while showcasing gorgeous views of the outside.

Virgin always has a flair for design and this is visible in the sleek, curvy tables, striking bar stools, and lovely leather bench chairs.

There’s a wonderful buffet until 10:30 a.m. Afterward, an all-day menu is offered. The bar opens at lunchtime where you can indulge in wines, spirits, or beers. You can even get barista-made coffee anytime.

Meanwhile, other amenities you can use include a business center and two meeting rooms. You can ask the receptionist to reserve a room for you if you need it. The refreshed bathrooms now sport a calming muted green shade with lovely Terrazzo tiling. There’s also a shower you can use.

Access: The Virgin Australia Lounge is open to all Virgin Australia Business passengers as well as Velocity Platinum and Gold Frequent Flyers. Partner airlines frequent flyers, as well as Platinum- or Centurion-flavored cardholders, are also eligible for entry. Paid entry is available for $65, however, this is subject to availability.

8. The House, Sydney

The House, Sydney. Image Credit: Etihad Hub

Airport: Sydney International Airport (SYD)
Location: Terminal Pier C, In front of Gate 51
Opening Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The House, Sydney is Etihad’s revamped and rebranded airport lounge. Management is now with No1 Lounge, and it now caters to various airlines, particularly Etihad Airways, Virgin Airlines, and British Airways.

Like most lounges, the area features several distinct zones. This includes a dining area, a bar space, a shower suite, and a children’s corner. Quiet corners of relaxation are also available at every turn. The main lounge has clustered seating composed of stylish single leather seats facing the windows or a group of four seats facing each other.

Hot and cold food selections are on offer including a full list of delicious meals you can order off the menu. As for the bar, it’s stocked with exceptional champagne and spirits. You can also order barista coffee from here.

Those traveling with kids can park them at the children’s playroom. It has toys and a TV with gaming consoles. Showers are also in the lounge if you want to freshen up before flying.

If you need to print something or work, there’s a business center with Apple computers and sleek white leather office chairs. There are also private male and female dedicated prayer rooms, luggage storage, and free Wi-Fi.

Access: Both Etihad First Class and Business class guests can access the lounge for free including Virgin Australia Business Class guests. Priority Pass members are eligible for a $20 co-pay. Meanwhile, a day pass is about $80 for adults when booked online or $90 when you pay at the airport.

9. Air Tahiti Nui Lounge Papeete Airport, French Polynesia

Air Tahiti Nui Lounge Papeete Airport, French Polynesia. Image Credit: Air Tahiti Nui

Airport: Faa’a International Airport (PPT)
Location: Terminal 1, Airside, Upper Level
Opening Hours: 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Being the only lounge at the Faa’a International Airport (PPT) means the Air Tahiti Nui Lounge caters to almost all of the premium airlines flying out from the terminal.

While the lounge isn’t particularly huge, it’s a great space to unwind instead of staying by the terminal gates. Occupying one big room, the area is divided into zones. Row seatings are offered near the windows while booth seats are also available for those in groups. If you wish to work or check out something on the computer, you can occupy any of the bar-seats.

Heat towards the interior and you’ll find more chairs with stylish wood shelves and armchairs. There’s a lack of views towards the inside but if you’re flying out at night, then this won’t be a problem.

If you’re feeling famished, the lounge offers a buffet set with both hot and cold dishes to enjoy. The selection consists of fruits, pastries, packaged snacks, cheese, cold cuts, and an array of self-serve drinks.

The bathrooms are well-kept even though it does get busy at times because of the number of flights being catered to by the lounge. A shower is also on hand as well as free Wi-Fi. Views of the apron from certain parts of the lounge will enthrall any flight nerd.

Access: You can access the Air Tahiti Nui Lounge if you have flights from Air France, Air New Zealand, Aircalin, Air Tahiti Nui, or United. Certain credit card holders as well as Priority Pass members can also enter.

10. Fiji Airways Premier Lounge, Fiji

Fiji Airways Premier Lounge, Fiji. Image Credit: Fiji Airways

Airport: Nadi International Airport (NAN)
Location: Airside, B1
Opening Hours: 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

One of the few hidden gems in the Nadi Airport, the Fiji Airways Premier Lounge is quite stylish. Greeting you at the entrance is a lush green wall of plants that opens to a spacious and elegant space where you can hang out, dine, or even work.

The lounge is divided into three areas: the bar, buffet section, and dining room. It comes with dark gray carpets with chic brown wood paneling, reminiscent of the Amex Centurion lounges. Creamy, tan leather armchairs are in rows with matching small tables. There are also a few in quiet nooks if you want more privacy or prefer being near the walls.

Living wall plants are also inside to add a cozy touch to the room. Head to the dining area where you’ll find both hot and cold dishes in a buffet. While the selection isn’t as extensive, it is delicious. They can even make a sandwich upon request. There are fruits, sweets, and hot servings like Nyonya Chicken with Steamed Rice or Bread and Basil Soup.

Self serve drinks are also served around the buffet. However, if you’re after alcoholic ones, head to the bar where you can find beer and a selection of wines and spirits. There’s an espresso machine for coffee lovers, but you can also order from the barista directly.

Bringing along the kids? There’s a dedicated kid’s playroom behind glass walls. This is a nice touch and makes it easy for parents to keep an eye out on the kiddos. A dedicated, albeit small, four workstation business center is available too. And finally, the restrooms are clean and well-kept. There’s even a shower room available. If you need further relaxation, you can book a pre-flight spa treatment as well.

Access: Fiji Airways Premier Lounge is open to most business class flights flying nearby. Oneworld Silver or Gold Status will also get you inside along with a Priority Pass.

11. Air New Zealand Lounge, Sydney

Air New Zealand Lounge, Sydney. Image Credit: Air New Zealand

Airport: Sydney International Airport (SYD)
Location: Terminal 1, Second Level, Adjacent Gate 56
Opening Hours: Starts at 6:00 a.m. until the last flight

The Air New Zealand Lounge is right next door to Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer Business Lounge. However, unlike the calm and traditional space of the KrisFlyer lounge, expect to see a lively modern bar with a cooking station and music inside the Air New Zealand lounge.

Sporting a chic black and white color palette, the lounge is downright elegant. Plane spotters will appreciate the large windows offering a view of the tarmac. There are several seating options – from stylish black cubbies by the wall to bar seating in the main lounge, you can easily find a spot for you.

Dining and drinks are presented in the two self-service bars. However, head to the main bar at the center for custom cocktails or drinks. The lounge also delivers a selection of Kiwi-centric beers and wines along with an impressive barista-made coffee.

The food here is exquisite, ensuring you’ll have a mix of hot meals and delicious grab-and-go items. There are salads, cheeses, and pastries. Come at the right time and the chefs will be there displaying their awesome cooking prowess before a live cooking station. It’s one of the most unique lounges you’ll find.

All of the bathrooms are gorgeous and clean with private shower suites complete with amenities to keep you comfortable. There are bath towels, a hairdryer, and Antipodes toiletries. In case you need it, there’s also a children’s playroom to help dispel some of your child’s energy before going onboard your flight.

Access: Complimentary access is given to any Air New Zealand Business Premier ticket holder or anyone flying a Star Alliance airline on First or Business.

12. Air New Zealand Lounge, Auckland

Air New Zealand Auckland International Lounge. Image Credit: Air New Zealand

Airport: Auckland International Airport (AKL) 
Location: Upper Level from Ground Concourse, Airside, Towards Gates 31-33
Opening Hours: Two hours before the first departing flight until 3;30 p.m.

One of the more contemporary lounges, Air New Zealand’s Auckland lounge can get busy at times but it’s still worth visiting. The lounge is modern with plenty of seating and good interior lighting. In the main area, you get beautiful dark gray carpets and rich leather seats.

It has a capacity of 375 guests but during peak flight times, it does fill up fast. Outlets are provided in key areas, usually underneath the tables. More stylish leather seats are placed in sections where solo travelers, couples, or even groups can sit together. Benches are also built into walls to create a cubby which makes it ideal if you want a corner nook.

A stylish chaise lounge is also situated by the window so you can catch a quick nap especially if you have an early or later flight. The back part of the lounge offers more seating and there’s even a retractable outdoor terrace and a fireplace for the colder months.

Breakfast buffet is the name of the game here. Indulge in self-serve pancakes during non-busy times. However, a chef does take over when the lounge gets hectic. Fruits, salads, bread, yogurt, and other items are breakfast staples. Hot items are also available like scrambled eggs, sausages, and potatoes, to name a few.

A sleek cocktail and bar are right in the middle. One highlight is the custom coffee you can get. Just order from a tablet and wait until your coffee is ready. Wines and beers are also inside small fridges by the buffet.

Meanwhile, the bathrooms are always kept crisp and clean, even during busy hours. Towards the back part is a shower suite, perfect for a freshen-up before leaving the lounge.

Access: Access here is available for Air New Zealand Airpoints Elite, Gold, Elite Partner, and Koru members flying Air New Zealand. It also extends entry to guests flying on Star Alliance flights in First, Business, or Domestic Business including Star Alliance Gold members.

Wrapping Up

With countries opening up worldwide, these airport lounges will be a crucial part of your travel in the South Pacific or Oceania.

Airport lounges are always fantastic for relaxing, enjoying great food, or simply waiting out your flight in absolute comfort.

Have a safe travel!