$662+ Cheap flights to Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland Travel Guide

The waterside city of Auckland—also known as the “City of Sails”—is known for its nautical lifestyle. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, Auckland’s backdrop is subtropical forests and volcanic terrains. Travelers booking flights to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, will undoubtedly spend time in the water. The city is known for its ideal swimming conditions, water sports, and—of course—world-renowned yachting.

Auckland is home to more than 1.3 million people and it boasts the largest Polynesian population in the world. Travelers booking flights to Auckland are in for some excellent outdoor activities; Auckland has more boats per capita than any city; 22 regional parks; 50 islands; and more than 300 miles of hiking trails.

For such a large city, Auckland’s surroundings are stunning. On a flight to Auckland, travelers will see the sea first, then the volcanic hills and lush forests, and finally, the city. Situated on a strip of land with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Tasman Sea on the other, the landscape is awe-inspiring and many visitors use Auckland as a base from which to explore the rest of New Zealand. From Stanley Bay, there are more than 100 beaches within an hour’s journey.

As a coastal city, it is no surprise that Auckland has incorporated the sea into its lifestyle. In fact, Waitemata Harbor serves as a focal point for the city. The word “Auckland” in Maori, the local dialect, means sea of sparkling waters. It is as apt a description of the local setting as any.

The city has been growing steadily since it hosted the America’s Cup in 2000. Now, a day spent on the water can be followed by a night touring the many clubs, bars and restaurants that have opened since then.

From quirky boutiques and antique shops in Parnell to numerous shopping precincts and malls, Auckland is a shopper’s paradise. Outside the city are vineyards and wineries. If you are flying to Auckland with the family, don’t miss the Snowplanet indoor snow center; an ideal destination for the kids.

Getting to and around the city of Auckland

Getting downtown from the airport

Flights to Auckland are served by Auckland Airport (AKL) which is located 13 miles from the city. An Airbus bus service leaves regularly (every 20 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes at night) for the city center. Shuttle buses also offer cheaper transport between the airport and city or suburbs on a “shared ride” basis. Taxi services are plentiful and can be booked from the arrivals hall. It is also easy to rent a car at the airport and drive via one of the two state highways which allow easy access to the different areas of the city.

Auckland is a modern city that is easy to travel by foot, bus or ferry. You can also rent a scooter or bicycle for at least half a day. You can get almost anywhere in central Auckland by bus; some of which will take you to tourist attractions for free. The public transportation is good enough that you won’t need a car to get around, and you’d struggle to find parking anyway. You may want to rent a car to head out to the suburbs, however, and you can also take a ferry to the north shore suburbs and Hauraki Gulf Islands.

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.

Tips for your stay in Auckland

• Ascension Wine Estate: If you’re a food and wine lover, make this site a day-one expedition. Sure, have a glass of Shiraz on your flight to Auckland, but know in your heart that you haven’t experienced anything yet. Ascension Wine Estate is run by fifth generation keepers who live off the land, and personally cultivate the grapes. Located in Matakana, this eco-friendly winery has been given the Green Ribbon for Sustainable Business from the Ministry of Environment, and takes personal pride in producing small quantities of the most sought-after wines in New Zealand. The grapes here are grown on north-facing slopes, to maximize sun and drainage advantage, and subsequently endure a long and slow ripening process. If you haven’t understood yet, this place takes care very seriously. Just ask the palate officer, the grape guardian, or the romance director. Yes, we said “romance director.”
• Devonport: Visit this tiny seaside village for a historic throwback to the quaint times of New Zealand. The array of glass art, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and contemporary fine art is enough to make your head spin—in a good way. Pick a piece that suits you and pack it away for your return flight; when you unwrap the gift to yourself you’ll always have a reminder of your travel to Auckland. When you’re done shopping, take a stroll along the wharf, or explore one of the three seaside volcanoes. Cafés and restaurants are dotted along the roads, completing your day.
• Auckland’s central waterfront area is best toured aboard a yacht. Trips around the harbor are on constant offer with a wide variety of boat types at your disposal. An outstanding tour involves heading out to the Hauraki Gulf, a 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. Cafés, 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 experienced by going to the top of Mount Eden, a volcanic cone at the center of the city. This is popular among the locals as a picnic and strolling site, so it is probably best to avoid summer weekends.

Finding Flights from Auckland

If you’re in need of an outbound flight from Auckland to extend your vacation or head to another destination, Cheapflights can help you find some great deals. Auckland International Airport serves most major U.S. and international carriers, so you should be able to book your flight in no time at all.

If you need a reliable lift to the airport, Auckland’s got you covered. Auckland International Airport only allows taxis and buses with specific licensing to shuttle passengers, so booking a ride with one of these services ensures safe and timely travel. Shuttle Auckland and Super Shuttle offer van service and convenient pick up from your hotel or lodging accommodations, just make sure to schedule your trip at least one day in advance to prevent delays. If you prefer to take a taxi to the airport, taxis in Auckland can usually pick up within short notice, but it’s always a good idea to pre-schedule your ride to prevent delays. Sky Bus NZ is a 24-hour shuttle bus service that offers rides to the airport, seven days a week. The bus picks up at all major hotels in the area, but you may wish to contact the service in advance to ensure your lodging area is on the route.

Auckland, New Zealand airport overview

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 travelers 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.