Customers have been waiting in the wings for eatery

In her 21st year in business and hospitality in Rotorua, Jo Romanes’ latest project has lift-off.

Terrace Airside opened at

8.30am on Tuesday to a “huge crowd” at Rotorua Airport.

The offshoot of Terrace Kitchen at the Rotorua lakefront had a temporary pop-up while work on the permanent site was completed, as part of the airport redevelopment.

The trial run began at the end of November, after the closure of Robert Harris at the airport, following the retirement of operator Barbara Holmes.

The full Terrace Airside has now opened as part of the second stage of the redevelopment.

The second stage also includes screening facilities, a separate new departures lounge and outdoor landscaped plaza and seating area as well as a business hub.

Romanes said she was “always looking for opportunities” in Rotorua.

“It’s always been very much a long-term commitment and investment to the city . . . It was time to spread our wings.”

This week’s opening had been “hotly anticipated by the airport staff and Air New Zealand crews”, she said.

“Everybody’s been watching the progress through the fence as the cafe has taken shape . . . It was actually really useful, having the trial run with the pop-up because we got