Auckland Airport Mini Guide
Happy Landings
Introducing Auckland Airport, the largest and busiest in New Zealand. It is described as the place where New Zealand connects with the world and you will receive a warm "Haere Mai" (welcome) to "The Land of the Long White Cloud". New Zealand’s breathtaking landscape greets you even before landing - what better way to complete a flight than with the stunning views of Manukau Harbour, from which some runway land was reclaimed. Nearly 14 million passengers experience this approach each year. Approximately half of these are from domestic locations and the other half international, travelling from cities in North and South America, Asia and
Australia, as well as
Dubai and Britain. The
UK flight operates with Air New Zealand and includes a stop in a variety of middle and far eastern cities depending on your flight choice.
Your Onward Journey
There is plenty to do in Auckland itself but maybe you intend to tour around or take a flight onto another city. Whatever your choice, there are several options available. Road travel is popular with two State Highways providing easy routes. With so many places to go in this vast country, car hire is almost essential. If you have hired through Rhino, collect your vehicle on the ground floor next to arrivals in the International Terminal; if you have taken a domestic flight, visit the desks on the multi-level car park, ground floor.
With public transport, your future is bright - literally! There are specially licensed taxis and buses. The buses are brightly coloured and offer numerous routes including into the city (bright blue), to Manukau (bright orange) and Northshore; also to the Downtown Ferry Terminal (another bright blue bus) where further buses, trains and a ferry are at your disposal. If you fancy something a bit more unusual, try travelling by helicopter or motor home.
Designed for Hassle-Free Travel
The airport is divided into separate domestic and international terminals. It is designed to be pleasant and convenient and is succeeding in its mission, having been voted one of the world's top 10 airports more than once. For international passengers, alongside the banking, exchange and other typical facilities are document services and mailing, free showers and the "Look-out Lounge" observation area. Passengers needing special assistance need only inform their airline in advance and support will be waiting. This includes automatic doors, adapted equipment and assistance from the airport "Bluecoats" team. There is reserved parking and Dial-a-Ride transfers are on-call.
Shop-Dine-Relax
A great motto, reflected by 21 outlets ready to give both shoppers and diners a pleasant experience. Whether you want a travel essential, a duty free indulgence or a gift, the shops are ready and waiting. There is also a shopping centre on the airport approach road. Once your shopping bag is full, sit back and relax with a meal or snack. Eating establishments are divided into 3 convenient categories: café, family and healthy options. Perhaps a nice glass of New Zealand wine to accompany?... a freshly brewed coffee or refreshing fruit juice are nice alternatives.
Passengers taking a domestic flight are offered the same pleasant experience and convenience from both facilities and services.
The approach to Auckland Airport is stunning as you fly over the Hauraki Gulf or Manukau Harbour. Once on the ground, all you need to do is to collect your hire car and then set off to discover the delights of New Zealand’s North Island.
First you should drive over the iconic Harbour Bridge, not quite as iconic as Sydney’s, but close enough to make it worthwhile. If you want to sample New Zealand’s finest beaches, head for Devonport or Mission Bay. If surfing is your sport then excellent waves are found at Piha and Muriwai.