Auckland flights and travel guide

As a coastal city, it is no surprise that Auckland has incorporated the sea into its lifestyle. However anyone arriving on cheap flights to Auckland may be taken aback by the extent to which all things nautical have become part of everyday life here. The “city of sails” has the most boats per capita in the world and so it is no surprise that Waitemata Harbour serves as a focal point for the city. Auckland in Maori, the local dialect, means sea of sparkling waters, which is as apt a description of the local setting as any.

The city hosted the America’s Cup in 2000 and benefits from the renovation it underwent to prepare for the event. As a result, a day spent on the water can now be followed by a night touring the many clubs, bars and restaurants that have opened in the past few years.

Outside the city, the stunning natural scenery surrounding the area becomes apparent. More than 100 beaches are located within an hour’s drive of Auckland’s Stanley Bay.

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Auckland climate

Auckland's coastal location moderates the local climate and as a result the region escapes the temperature extremes experienced elsewhere. However, rainfall is recorded all year though it is most concentrated in winter. Remember that Auckland is in the southern hemisphere and the seasons are reversed. Summer starts in December and winter begins in June. Summer temperatures here are comfortable – the mid-20 degree Celsius range – but it is humid. Winter temperatures, meanwhile, drop to the low single digits (Celsius) but rarely fall below freezing.

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When to fly to Auckland

Peak Season:

Local peak season starts in December and continues through March. Visitors arriving on cheap flights to Auckland tend to coincide with the warmer temperatures. The number of tourists in the city peak during the summer school holidays (mid-December through January).

Easter and Labour Day (late October) weekends also tend to be busy.

Off Season:

November and April constitute considerably quieter periods making hotel deals and fare discounts easier to find while the weather is still good.

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Getting downtown Auckland

The airport is serviced by a regular Airbus bus, which departs every 20 minutes during the day and then slows to every 30 minutes at night. It plies the route to the city centre with tickets costing NZ$15 for a single journey. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus, which is cheaper because it operates on a shared-ride basis between the airport, city and suburbs. Taxis are also readily available but cost much more with the airport to city route coming in at about NZ$40.

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Getting around Auckland

Auckland is a modern city that can be explored on foot, by bicycle or scooter, bus, car or a combination of all of them. The centre is certainly accessible to anyone wanting to explore the city on foot.

The Link is the local bus service and can be used to augment your sightseeing strategy, particularly when your legs begin to feel weary. There are also free transportation options for the major attractions. The north shore suburbs and Hauraki Gulf Islands are all serviced by ferries.

If you’re planning excursions further afield, a rental car makes sense. All major rental car companies are represented both in the city and at the airport. Remember that the locals here drive on the left.

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Auckland insider information

• Auckland’s central waterfront area is best toured aboard a yacht. Trips around the harbour are on constant offer with a wide variety of boat types at your disposal including the Louis Vuitton boat from the America’s Cup. An outstanding tour involves heading out to the Hauraki Gulf, two-hour outing, that provides stunning views of the city. Booking in advance is not usually necessary.
• The Stardome (also known as the Auckland Observatory and Planetarium) can be found in the One Tree Hill area. Regular planetarium fare is on offer though on clear nights you can use the local telescope to peer at the stars.
• The Victoria Park Market has come a long way from its very humble beginnings. The area was once a garbage dump, but today is home to many crafts shops and boutiques. Cafes, restaurants and a food court aim to take care of all your needs during the shopping expedition.
• For food at altitude, head for the revolving Orbit Restaurant on top of the Sky Tower. The 360-degree views on offer make this a popular dining destination so do book ahead. It is open for brunch, lunch and supper and your meal includes entry to the observation level.
• Another opportunity to see Auckland from above – this one is complimentary – can be had by going to the top of Mount Eden, a volcanic cone at the centre of the city. It is popular among the locals as a picnic and strolling site so it is probably best to avoid summer weekends.

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Auckland airports

Auckland International Airport (AKL) is situated 22km south of the city.

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