With some 13 million passengers passing through each year, Auckland International Airport (AKL), also known to locals as Mangere Airport after the suburb in which it is located, is New Zealand’s primary airport, and the fourth busiest in Australasia.
The buzzing airport takes its role seriously as the first and last place that visitors see in New Zealand, and has put together an impressive collection of imagery reflecting the culture and heritage of the country, which you can view on the walls of the airport.
The airport is under regular construction, a process that some travellers have reported as unsettling. Until Auckland International has finished with its tweaks and reshuffles, give yourself a little extra time to navigate – nobody likes to fly stressed, so better to be safe than sorry.
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<div class="rxbodyfield">A free terminal transfer bus service operates every 15 minutes between the International and Domestic Terminals. The bus runs from 5am to 10:30pm daily. Alternatively, follow the clearly-signposted walkway for a quick 10-minute walk between terminals.</div>
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Bus: Public transport buses run regularly to the city centre and other locations. The city bus is a distinctive bright blue, and tickets cost around NZ$16 one way. Other locations serviced by buses include Manukau, Botany/Pakuranga and Northshore.
Taxis and shuttles: Taxi and shuttle ranks are located outside the International Terminal and Domestic Terminal in well-monitored taxi ranks. Fares are usually between NZ$60 and NZ$80 for a taxi, and shuttles are around NZ$33 for one person, with an additional NZ$8 for extra people travelling with you.
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Both the Domestic and International Terminals have a variety of convenient parking options, including a park and ride option for long-term parking, depending on travellers’ needs. There are a large number of bays available, and all lots have excellent security with 24-hour monitoring. Rates range from NZ$9-10 per hour, or NZ$29-39 per day.
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Money and communications: ATMs are present in the international arrivals and departures halls, as well as the Domestic Terminal. There are also currency exchange facilities and Internet kiosks throughout the airport.
Luggage: Luggage storage and wrapping is available in the International Terminal at Auckland Airport. Luggage storage is also available for hand luggage at The Collection Point, after security, and at the Visitor Information Centre for larger bags.
Conference and business: The Airport Gateway Hotel, located just four minutes from the central terminal buildings, boasts full conference facilities ranging from a boardroom for small meetings to a large reception venue for conference functions for up to 120 people.
Other facilities: Airport amenities include free nursery rooms, prayer rooms, a first aid station, and the gold standard for long layovers – free hot showers.
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi, which is free for the first 30 minutes, is available at a few selected spots, including the Café Down Under and the Café Espresso in the International Terminal, and in the Domestic Terminal the public shopping and food court area on the ground floor.
Shopping: Auckland International has a lot to offer in the way of shopping with some 21 shops and cafes located throughout each of the terminals, carrying everything from make-up to confectionary, clothing and electronics. If you enjoyed the art throughout the airport, visit Artport to see some local originals, or to grab a souvenir of your stay, visit Kiwi Discovery. In addition, the Airport Shopping Centre is conveniently located on your way to the airport, and has everything from florists to hairdressers.
Food and drink: The airport offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a café, family-friendly, or health-conscious option. The terminals have everything from a quick bite at McDonald’s or Burger King, to authentic Japanese sushi available from Hayama sushi.
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