Houston Traveler

I will be arriving at 7:10am on UA 839 out of LAX. I have a continuing flight on NZ to AKL at 6:40pm the same day of arrival. I'm Star Gold.

Will I be allowed access to the NZ lounge in SYD upon arrival? I believe I will based on my Star status. My concern is my out bound flight the same day is over eleven hours later than when I am trying to gain access.

If I am allowed access will I then be allowed to leave the lounge after showering and cleaning up? I might want to clear customs and go in to Sydney for a few hours before returning for my NZ flight.

Thanks

Houston Traveler

kaimanawa

You should have no problem with lounge access - the NZ lounge is open all day in SYD and you can go in/out multiple times with your onward boarding pass.

Two things to consider:

1. It will be helpful for UA/CO to print that onward boarding pass and tag checked luggage through to AKL. If you pick up your checked bags in SYD, you won't be able to re-check them in until 3:15pm SYD time - Air NZ is VERY strict about check-in times in SYD.

2. In order to access the lounge at SYD, you'll have to go through the transit security screening. After your shower, you'll have to do that in reverse and head out through immigration. I've never done this, but I don't see why it's not possible, especially since the NZ lounge staff are very helpful.

cavemanzk

You are not allowed to do this under Australian Aviation rules. If you do attempted it the AFP would be called in & you will be subject to questioning.

serfty

It's been done; however, it can be a pain. If questioned simply and truthfully state your lawful purpose and you should be fine.

.

jjclancy

#1 I've done this successfully without interaction with the AFP.
#2 What rule is being broken?

jjclancy

Following up on this:
Did this again recently, with no problems from either the contracted security screeners or Aussie immigration. Saved the SYD airport left-luggage fee, enjoyed the shower, and had a great day in the city.

jasonvr

Just to be clear here, was the issue that the OP was going to go to the lounge (after going thru transit security) and then try to leave the airport?

I ask because I have a coworker (*G status) who is flying LAX-SYD in UA C, connecting to AKL 3 hours later in NZ Y. I am reading conflicting reports on whether they will be able to get to the Koru Club (no intention on leaving the airport). Even NZ's website says no which seems really odd:

http://www.airnewzealand.com/interna...unge-directory

(click on Sydney)

It has "Access available when you're in transit" marked with an X which means no

Xiaotung

That information is obviously wrong. You will have absolutely no problem entering the lounge.