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If you’re arriving or departing New Zealand by air then there’s a good chance you’ll be heading for Auckland. Why? Well, because Auckland International Airport is easily the biggest and liveliest airport in the country, handling well over 20 million passengers last year alone. All major airlines serving New Zealand fly into its modern international terminal, while the separate domestic terminal transits regional flights operated by the likes of Air New Zealand and Jetstar.
Auckland Airport is set close to Mangere, a pleasant residential suburb just over 20 kilometres south of Auckland’s picturesque city centre. Getting to Mangere from the city is a breeze, with the handy SkyBus providing quick and easy transfers (45-60 min journey time) around-the-clock, 365 days a year. There’s also a free shuttle service running between the two terminal buildings to aid passengers further.
As a major international transport hub, there’s plenty to check out both inside and surrounding the airport. You’ll find more than two dozen eateries on hand to provide that all important pre- or post-flight meal, with cuisines ranging from Asian and Mediterranean to American and Indian snacks. We’d recommend seeking out those outlets proffering traditional New Zealand eats first. Be sure to ask for a “flat white” when ordering a coffee to savour your caffeine buzz with a local flavour. Hitting the shops is another very pleasant distraction, especially on the first floor of the international terminal where specialist shops selling watches, jewellery and confectionary await.
If you’ve got quite a bit of time to spare then head outside the airport and make for Butterfly Creek, a quirky mini-zoo just 15 minutes’ walk down the road. With everything from reptiles, creepy crawlies and butterflies to farm animals, lizards and tropical fish making up the vibrant exhibitions, it’s a fine place to enjoy a change of pace. If time allows, grab soak up thrills and spills at the adrenaline raising Rainbow’s End theme park, or treat yourself to some scenic downtime at the beautiful Auckland Botanic Gardens, home to over 8000 species of flora. Both are only a brief taxi ride away.
As you’d expect, there are plenty of hotels near Auckland Airport for discerning travellers to choose from. Indeed, those looking to grab a bit of shut-eye before or after their journey will no doubt be very pleased to discover such a good choice of Auckland Airport accommodation options standing by. In terms of pure convenience, the stylish Novotel Auckland Airport is in a league of its own, located as it is right next door to the international terminal building. Having a hip restaurant and a cool bar on site only adds to its strong appeal.
Elsewhere, the Holiday Inn Auckland Airport ticks all the right boxes for a mid-range offering, with a laid-back restaurant, casual bar and outdoor pool all coming as standard. The free airport shuttle is much appreciated too.
Those looking for budget Auckland Airport hotels won’t be disappointed by the modern rooms and casual cafe at the ibis Budget Auckland Airport. It too offers a free shuttle service, while also boasting the added bonus of being an easy 15-minute walk away from the international terminal.