WLG Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know WLG Airport
Discover Wellington Airport, New Zealand's scenic gateway, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and hills right from the runway. Our concise guide simplifies your airport experience, from flight updates to dining and shopping. Notably, WLG is renowned for its giant Gollum installation, adding a touch of whimsy to your travel. For a deeper dive into airport insights, visit iFly's Comprehensive Airport Guide.
iFly Tip: Choose the best check-in option for your needs with help from our guide.
Navigating WLG's Terminals
WLG has one main terminal with two levels. The ground level is for arrivals and the first level is for departures. The terminal is divided into two zones: the Domestic Zone and the International Zone. The Domestic Zone has 12 gates and is used by airlines such as Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Qantas. The International Zone has 6 gates and is used by airlines such as Fiji Airways, Virgin Australia, and Singapore Airlines.
There are several amenities available at WLG Airport, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. You can find food options such as Burger King, Subway, and Mojo Coffee in both the Domestic and International Zones. There are also duty-free shops and souvenir shops available for travelers.
If you need assistance navigating the airport or have any questions, there are information desks located throughout the terminal. You can also download the Wellington Airport app for up-to-date flight information and terminal maps.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has a single terminal building, making it easy for passengers to navigate. The terminal is split into two levels, with arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the first floor. Passengers can easily walk between the two levels using the stairs or elevators located throughout the terminal.
If you need to transfer between flights, there are no additional terminals to navigate. Simply follow the signs to your connecting flight’s gate. Wellington Airport is small enough that passengers can easily walk between gates, even if they are located at opposite ends of the terminal.
Tips from WLG Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Wellington Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from WLG-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"Navigating WLG is pretty straightforward since it has just one terminal. When you arrive, keep an eye out for the signs; they are clear and will guide you to domestic or international areas efficiently. I recommend downloading the Wellington Airport app for a handy map and real-time updates." — Emma T., Lower Hutt, NZ, January 2024
"If you're transferring between domestic and international flights, don't worry about long walks or shuttle buses. The terminal is compact, and it's easy to move between the zones on foot." — Alex R., Porirua, NZ, March 2024
Getting To/From the City
"For a stress-free ride to the city, take the Airport Flyer bus. It's reliable and gives you a nice view of the coastline. If you're in a hurry, taxis are quick and cost about NZD 30-40 to the city center." — Priya K., Wellington, NZ, February 2024
"Uber and Ola are convenient options if you prefer ride-sharing. They have designated pick-up areas right outside the terminal, but make sure to confirm your ride as soon as you land to avoid any wait time." — John L., Petone, NZ, April 2024
Parking
"For short-term parking, the covered lots are a lifesaver, especially on rainy days. They're just a short walk from the terminal, so you can get in and out quickly." — Mia S., Johnsonville, NZ, May 2024
"If you're looking to save some money, opt for the off-airport parking. It’s economical, and the shuttle service is prompt and reliable." — Thomas B., Paraparaumu, NZ, July 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick bite, Mojo Coffee is my go-to. They have great coffee and snacks, and it's located conveniently in both zones. Perfect for a caffeine fix before your flight." — Olivia W., Wellington, NZ, June 2024
"Don't miss the duty-free shops if you're traveling internationally. They have some great deals on local New Zealand products that make perfect souvenirs." — Lucas J., Upper Hutt, NZ, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"I always arrive a little earlier than necessary. WLG is efficient, but security lines can get busy during peak hours. Use the airport’s free Wi-Fi to pass the time if you have extra minutes." — Sophie M., Kapiti Coast, NZ, September 2024
"Keep an eye on the flight information displays and sign up for airline notifications. They are very helpful in case of any last-minute changes or gate updates." — Ethan P., Wellington, NZ, October 2024
iFly Tip: Be prepared by understanding the baggage check-in deadlines for your flight.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Wellington Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside of the terminal buildings. It is important to note that there is no parking allowed in these areas, and vehicles must be attended at all times. Drivers can wait in their vehicles for their passengers to arrive, but they must be ready to move their vehicle as soon as their passengers are ready to depart.
For those who need to wait for their arriving passengers, Wellington Airport provides a cell-phone waiting area located just a short distance from the terminal buildings. This area allows drivers to park their vehicles for free and wait for their passengers to call them when they are ready to be picked up. Once the passengers have collected their baggage and are ready to be picked up, the driver can then proceed to the curbside area to collect them.
Parking Facilities & Options
WLG offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are both covered and uncovered parking lots located within walking distance of the terminal. Short-term and long-term parking options are available to suit your needs.
If you're picking up or dropping off passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the terminal. These areas allow you to wait in your car until your party is ready to be picked up, avoiding the need to circle the terminal or pay for parking.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages. If you require special assistance, please contact the airport prior to your arrival to arrange for any necessary accommodations.
For those looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it easy to get to your terminal without breaking the bank.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport:
- Car Rentals: Wellington Airport provides several car rental facilities conveniently located within the airport. Major providers include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty. These services typically operate from early morning until late evening, and it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. More information can be found here.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at Wellington Airport, with designated taxi ranks located outside the main terminal building. The fare will depend on your destination, and fare information can be found at the taxi rank. The average fare to Wellington city center is approximately NZD 30-40, with a travel time of around 20 minutes.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Ola, are available at Wellington Airport. Pickup areas for these services are located outside the main terminal building. Note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage allowed in these vehicles.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles offer door-to-door service to and from the airport. Pickup areas for these shuttles are located outside the main terminal building. Fares vary depending on your destination and the shuttle service provider. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
- Public Transportation: The Airport Flyer bus service provides regular service between the airport and Wellington city center, as well as other destinations in the region. Bus stops are located outside the main terminal building. Fares for the Airport Flyer bus service are reasonable and vary depending on your destination, with tickets available for purchase directly from the bus driver or online. The travel time to the city center is approximately 30 minutes.
iFly Tip: Ensure your toddler's safety and comfort with advice from our toddler flying guide.
Airport Hotels
Travel can be exhausting, but a comfortable hotel near the airport can make your journey smoother. Whether you're catching an early flight, arriving late, or in transit, we have a range of hotel options to suit your needs. From luxurious 4.5-star establishments to cozy bed and breakfasts, these accommodations offer comfort, convenience, and proximity to local attractions. Some are situated directly above the international terminal, while others offer tranquil garden settings, beachfront lodgings, or stunning sea views. Many also provide complimentary Wifi and private parking facilities. Whether you're a business traveler, a beach lover, or a family looking to explore local attractions, you'll find a hotel that perfectly suits your needs. Discover the best hotel options with our the airport Hotels guide.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Wellington Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food options such as McDonald's and Subway located throughout the airport. For a sit-down meal, we recommend trying out Best Ugly Bagels, which offers delicious bagels with a variety of toppings, or Joe's Garage, which serves up tasty breakfast options all day long. Both restaurants are located in the main terminal.
When it comes to shopping, WLG has a great selection of stores to choose from. For travelers looking to pick up some last-minute souvenirs, we recommend checking out The Merino Collection, which offers a variety of New Zealand-made wool products, or The Vault, which sells unique New Zealand gifts and souvenirs. Both stores are located in the main terminal. For those looking to do some duty-free shopping, there are several options available including JR Duty Free and Aelia Duty Free, both located in the international terminal.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at WLG Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: WLG Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, lost and found services are available for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, WLG Airport features a designated children's play area located in the main terminal.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: Several ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is located in the main terminal. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at the airport.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These screens are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information about flight departures, arrivals, and gate information. Simply locate the FIDS display and find your flight number to see the status of your flight.
Another way to stay informed about your flight status is by using airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own apps that allow passengers to check their flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes, and even check in for their flight. Passengers can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications to receive updates about their flight status.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Wellington Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Wellington Airport (WLG) is located in Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand.
- Terminals: The airport has a single terminal building.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Qantas. For a complete list of airlines, visit the WLG Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Wellington Airport handles approximately 6 million passengers annually, averaging around 16,000 passengers per day.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees about 130 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: Popular destinations include Auckland, Christchurch, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
- Hub Status: Wellington Airport serves as a hub for Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Sounds Air.
Airport History
Wellington Airport, located in New Zealand, has a rich history dating back to the early 1920s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1929: The airport was officially opened as Rongotai Airport.
- 1935: The first international flight from Wellington to Sydney, Australia took place.
- 1959: The airport was renamed Wellington International Airport.
- 1960: The first jet aircraft landed at the airport.
- 1977: The airport's runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft.
- 1986: The airport was privatized and sold to Infratil, a New Zealand infrastructure investment company.
- 1999: A new international terminal was opened, increasing the airport's capacity to handle more passengers.
- 2010: The airport was renamed Wellington Airport, dropping the "International" from its name.
- 2013: A new passenger terminal was opened, featuring modern amenities and improved facilities.
Today, WLG continues to serve as a major transportation hub for travelers visiting New Zealand's capital city.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Wellington Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: WLG
- Airport Website
- Phone: +64 4 385 5100
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Wellington International Airport, Stewart Duff Drive, Rongotai, Wellington 6022, New Zealand
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Wellington Airport Q&A
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