Airport Details
Airport Full Name
Auckland International Airport
IATA Code
AKL
Location:
The airport is situated 14 miles (22km) south of
Auckland.
Airport Facilities
Facilities at the airport include left luggage, business facilities, a medical centre, banks and ATMs, bars, restaurants and shops, a crèche, a post office, a hairdresser, supermarket, Internet kiosks, tourist information and hotel reservations desks. Disabled facilities are good, but those with special needs should inform their airline or travel agent in advance.
Transfers
An Airbus bus service leaves regularly (every 20 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night) for the city centre and costs NZ$15 for a single ticket. Shuttle buses also offer economical transportation between the airport and city or suburbs on a 'shared ride' basis. Maxx also offers public transport to and from the city and surrounding areas. Visit their website www.maxx.co.nzfor details. Taxis are also available; the airport to city fare is about NZ$50 to NZ$65.
Contact
Tel: +64 (0)9 275 0789 or 0800 247 767 (NZ only).
Auckland Hotel Deals
Auckland Holiday Deals
Climate Details (C)
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
| Min | 16 | 16 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 14 |
| Max | 23 | 23 | 22 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 21 |
Travel Guides: Auckland
General Information
Auckland is situated on a narrow strip of land, flanked by two magnificent harbours to the east and west. The shallow Manukau Harbour opens out to the Tasman Sea to the west, while the Waitemata Harbour lies at the heart of the city centre and is Auckland's deepwater port. It has a vibrant waterfront that has flourished with the successful hosting of the America's Cup, and the trendy restaurants and waterside cafes are a constant hive of activity.
Known as the 'City of Sails', with a larger boat-to-person ratio than anywhere else on earth, it is a paradise for sailing enthusiasts and every weekend the waters of the Hauraki Gulf come alive with a flotilla of colourful sails. The best way to experience the city is from the water, sailing around the attractive harbour or on a ferry cruise to one of the many stunning islands dotted about the Gulf.
Auckland is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in New Zealand, and acts as a major gateway to the rest of the country. Yet it is also one of the least densely populated in the world, covering an area twice the size of London but with barely a million inhabitants. It has a friendly small-town atmosphere and a relaxed pace of life.
Beyond the bustling downtown area, dominated by the southern hemisphere's tallest building, the Sky Tower, the city sprawls outwards, with low-slung buildings and wooden houses among leafy parks and walking tracks. The suburbs wind their way around picturesque bays and harbours and between volcanic hills that provide panoramic views over the city and mountains, encompassing numerous green urban parklands that are dotted with sheep.
Getting Around
Buses serve most places in the city centre and there are some free bus services in the inner city, linking to major tourist attractions. The city train service is aimed primarily at commuters. Ferries connect to the north shore suburbs and take passengers to the Hauraki Gulf Islands. Taxis can be hailed on the street, but are more commonly booked by phone. There isn't much advantage to having a car in the city even considering that driving is easier than in other major cities, but to explore suburbs further away it is best to rent a car. Drivers must have a valid driver's license and be at least 21 years of age, although most agencies will add surcharges to under-25s. Cycling or hiring a scooter are also good ways to explore the city. For schedules, routes and fares on ferries, buses and trains, visit www.maxx.co.nz.
Activities
Bay of Islands, Auckland
The Bay of Islands is famous for its beautiful coastal scenery and is one of North Island's major attractions. The bay is interspersed with numerous little coves, inlets and sandy beaches, and the historical townships of Paihia, Waitangi and Russell are the central hubs of the area, from where an unbelievable array of activities and tours can be arranged. Sailing and boat cruises around the islands are the main attraction, but the natural surroundings and warm waters of the bay make it an ideal place for kayaking, swimming, diving and fishing. The bay is also of historical significance as the place where the Treaty of Waitangi was first signed between the European settlers and Maori chiefs in 1840.
Auckland Sky Tower, Auckland
At 1,076 feet (328m), Auckland's Sky Tower is the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere and has unforgettable views over the city, the harbour and the gulf islands. It is part of the Sky City Entertainment Complex, with a casino, theatre, hotel and conference centre. Visitors to the tower can splash out on dinner in the revolving restaurant, or admire the view from one of the four circular observation decks, reached by a glass lift. There is an outdoor deck, glass floor panels, an audio visual guide and touch computer screens providing geographical information. The Sky Deck is the highest viewing level with spectacular 360-degree views.
Getting There:
Sky Tower is located a 10 minute walk from the
inner-city bus station, as well as the central bus and train
station in Auckland.
Opening Times:
The Sky Tower is open 8:30am-10:30pm from Sunday to
Thursday. On Fridays and Saturdays it is open 8:30am-11:30pm. Last
tickets are sold half an hour before the closing
time.
Admission:
NZ$25 (adults), NZ$11 (children). To climb to the Sky
Deck level is an extra NZ$3. Other concessions are
available.
Hauraki Gulf Islands, Auckland
The Hauraki Gulf is studded with numerous islands such as Rangitoto, Waiheke and Great Barrier Island and those close to the mainland make a good day trip. Some are recreation retreats, and others are conservation islands with restricted access, reserves for the protection of rare bird, animal and plant life. Waiheke is the most popular of the gulf islands, with picturesque bays and white sandy beaches, rolling farmlands and hills cloaked with vineyards and fine wineries. The town enjoys the slow and relaxed pace of island life, along with chic little restaurants and cafes, and is home to many art galleries and craft shops.
The nearest island to the city is the uninhabited Rangitoto, a large volcanic cone with an unusual landscape of black distorted lava shapes that governs the view over the harbour. It is possible to hike up to the crater rim and explore the lava caves on the slopes. Each island has a different character with different things to do, whether it is to explore natural geological features or to enjoy the isolation, relax on white beaches or wander about the galleries and cafes. Some visitors prefer simply to sail around the islands on a yacht or ferry cruise and enjoy the scenery from on board.
Getting There:
Frequent ferries leave from the wharves around the Ferry
Building
Auckland Museum, Auckland
Situated on The Domain, an extensive central city parkland on one of Auckland's extinct volcanic hills, the Auckland Museum overlooks the city and the attractive Waitemata Harbour. It is one of the most visited attractions in the city, housing a remarkable collection of Maori and Pacific Island artefacts and cultural displays. Originally built as a World War I Memorial in 1929, the building was dedicated to the memory of New Zealand victims in both World War I and II. The 'New Zealand at War' exhibition has since been joined by extensive displays about the people and the country, its cultures, art and natural history. There is a Children's Discovery Centre on the middle floor. For many, a highlight of a visit to the museum, is the three times daily Maori cultural performance of song and dance, providing an entertaining insight into Maori mythology and history.
Getting There:
The museum is a five minute drive from the city centre,
free parking is available for up to one hour. The green LINK buses
stop at Parnell Road which is close to the museum. City tour buses
and the hop-on-hop-off bus services stop outside the museum every
half hour. Public services 645 and 655 also stop on Parnell Road,
five minutes walk away.
Opening Times:
Daily 10am-5pm. Closed on 25 December and 25
April.
Admission:
A NZ$10 donation is suggested (adults). The Maori
performance requires an admission of NZ$15 (concessions available)
and this includes the museum donation. Guided tours are available
at an additional fee of NZ$10 per adult and NZ$5 for
children.
Hamilton, Auckland
Hamilton is a pretty town 80 miles (128km) south of Auckland. It's proximity to the bigger city means it is often overlooked by tourists in New Zealand, however as an excursion from Auckland, Hamilton has some worthwhile sights to offer. There are several hot springs around Hamilton, and the city is full of gardens, parks and river walks. Not far out of Hamilton is Matamata, home to the Hobbiton Movie Set, the 'Hobbit village' created for The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Guided 'film and farm' tours are offered for fans of the movies.
Events
Auckland Lantern Festival
To end the Chinese New Year celebrations, the annual Lantern Festival is one of the city's most popular events. Thousands of people flock to the park to enjoy the spectacle of hundreds of glowing lanterns, as well as a variety of performances, fireworks, crafts and food stalls.
Date:
3 - 5 February 2012
Venue:
Albert Park
Venue:
5:30-10:30pm
Auckland Anniversary Regatta
Being known as the 'City of Sails,' Auckland is recognised as a yachtsman's paradise, so it is no surprise to discover that its annual official Regatta is the biggest one-day Regatta in the world. This historic event was first held in September 1840 and has sailed on through turbulent years and changing social trends to become a family outing full of fun and excitement. Numerous events take place in the harbour and surrounding waterfront to complement the actual yacht regatta.
Date:
30 January 2012
Venue:
Auckland Harbour
New Zealand Fashion Week
International fashion buyers and writers descend on Auckland during October each year to celebrate in grand style the unique indigenous-inspired collections of New Zealand's talented designers. About 50 designers show their collections at this major event. Some shows are open to the general public, but on the final day of the week everyone can join in the fashion extravaganza when Aotea Square becomes a hive of fashion, music, markets, and interactive and educational activity for all.
Date:
3 - 9 September 2012
Venue:
135 Halsey Street, Auckland's Viaduct Harbour
Pasifika Festival
Auckland boasts the world's largest Polynesian population, and celebrates the art, culture and lifestyle of this vibrant native community with the annual Pasifika Festival. The festival opens on Friday evening with a concert showcasing talented Polynesian music artists. On Saturday the entertainment continues with local church music and dance groups while visitors can sample traditional food, view art and handcrafts, browse at more than 300 stalls and wander through the series of 'Pacific Island villages' for a total cultural experience.
Date:
9 - 10 March 2012
Venue:
Western Springs Park, Great North Road
Venue:
Opening night concert: 7:30pm-9:30pm; festival:
10am-5pm
Auckland Arts Festival
The Auckland Arts Festival is a spectacular celebration of the sheer variety of cultures and communities living across the city. Held in March annually, this biennial festival is a feast of dance, theatre, visual art and musical entertainment. The Auckland Arts Festival is the perfect place to learn more about New Zealand and the Asia-Pacific region.
Date:
6 - 24 March 2013
Venue:
Various
NZ International Comedy Festival
Some of the best and brightest comedians from the International circuit join some of New Zealand's top acts for over three weeks of comedy madness.
Date:
27 April to 20 May 2012
Venue:
Various
Auckland's Big Day Out
The New Zealand leg of the popular Australian summer tours brings the biggest names in popular world music to Auckland for a day of hard rocking and dancing till the sun goes down.
Date:
20 January 2012
Venue:
Mt Smart Stadium
Venue:
11am
Restaurants
Industry Zen
Auckland has a large selection of Japanese restaurants and sushi bars, but Industry Zen is a cut above the rest. With authentic Japanese decor and traditional Japanese meals this restaurant will transport you to Japan for the evening. Industry Zen is definitely one of the best sushi restaurants in Auckland and is often fully booked. Their sushi is made to perfection and the sushi wraps are a hit. Industry Zen also serves a decadent selection of Japanese tapas including crumbed rock oysters, fried squid legs and traditional Japanese Gyoza. The green tea ice-cream is the perfect way to end your meal. Bookings essential.
Address:
104D Customs Street
Saison
For French cuisine at its best visit Saison. This French restaurant serves up an exciting array of stylish meat and seafood dishes. Using seasonal vegetables and only the best meat available Saison will tantalise your taste buds in all the right ways. Saison has a great wine selection including local and international wines. The roasted John Dory with pumpkin gnocchi comes highly recommended as does the roast duck with bitter chocolate jus. Be sure to save space for one of their desserts. Reservations essential.
Address:
417 Manukau Road, Epsom
Punjab Palace
Punjab Palace is one of Auckland's many Indian restaurants. What sets Punjab Palace apart is their extensive menu and the pride and personal involvement that the owners take in the day to day running of this great restaurant. With piping hot curries, perfectly cooked naan and meat dishes done to perfection, Punjab Palace serves food fit for royalty. Try the Mango Chincken for something different, or the Lamb Rogen Josh for some of India's finest spices and New Zealand's best lamb. Bring along a bottle of wine and enjoy a great Indian feast. Bookings essential.
Address:
164 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby and 71-D Great South Road,
Papakura.
Bodrum Restaurant and Bar
Bodrum is arguably one of the best Turkish restaurants in Auckland. With an open plan kitchen diners can watch the chef as he prepares each scrumptious dish in front of you. On Fridays and Saturdays diners can enjoy entertaining belly dancing performances. Bodum has an extensive wine list as well as raki and aromatic Turkish coffee. Try the Sarai Patlican which is a tender lamb stew with jalapenos and other vegetables. The kebabs are grilled and marinated to perfection and the Eggplant Ashor, marinated ground beef with pan-friend eggplant, will have you coming back for more. Bookings recommended.
Address:
2 Osborne Street, Newmarket
