AKL 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 AKL Airport
Welcome to Auckland Airport, your entry to New Zealand's wonders and the world's first airport to welcome travelers every day. As the main hub, AKL streamlines your journey with extensive amenities. This guide simplifies airport navigation, ensuring a seamless experience. For a detailed exploration, our Comprehensive Airport Guide covers everything from flight updates to dining options, making your New Zealand adventure unforgettable.
iFly Tip: Pack smarter and travel easier with tips from our airport info page.
Navigating AKL's Terminals
The airport has two main terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. The Domestic Terminal is divided into two areas, the South and North areas, and has a total of 16 gates. The International Terminal has 28 gates and is used by major airlines such as Air New Zealand, Qantas, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific.
When arriving at the airport, passengers should check their airline and flight number to determine which terminal they need to go to. The terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus service that runs every 15 minutes, 24 hours a day. The shuttle bus stops at both terminals and the car park areas.
Inside the terminals, passengers will find a variety of shops, restaurants, and services. The Domestic Terminal has a food court, a pharmacy, and a duty-free store, while the International Terminal has a wider range of options including luxury brands, bars, and cafes. There are also ATMs, currency exchange services, and free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Auckland Airport has two terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. The terminals are located approximately 500 meters apart from each other and are connected by a covered walkway. The walkway takes around 10 minutes to walk, so make sure to allow enough time if you need to transfer between terminals.
If you prefer not to walk, there is a free shuttle bus that runs between the terminals every 15 minutes. The shuttle bus is located outside the arrivals area of both terminals and is clearly signposted. The journey takes around 5 minutes.
Tips from AKL Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Auckland Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from AKL-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
"If you're flying domestically, remember that the Domestic Terminal is split into North and South areas. It's easy to get mixed up, so double-check your gate before heading through security. The free shuttle is a lifesaver if you're transferring between terminals." — Emma T., Manukau, NZ, January 2024
"The International Terminal is quite expansive. I recommend arriving early to explore the shops and cafes. The terminal map on the airport's website is very handy for finding your way around." — Rahul S., Papatoetoe, NZ, March 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The SkyBus is the most convenient way to get to Auckland CBD, especially during peak hours when traffic can be a nightmare. It's reliable and runs 24/7." — Lucy H., Mangere, NZ, February 2024
"For a more budget-friendly option, consider the local bus services. They may take a bit longer but are much cheaper than taxis." — James K., Onehunga, NZ, April 2024
Parking
"If you're leaving your car at the airport, the Park & Ride option is economical and offers a free shuttle to the terminals. It's a bit further out, but the savings are worth it." — Mei W., Papakura, NZ, May 2024
"For short stays, the covered parking near the terminals is convenient, especially during the rainy season. Just remember to book in advance to secure a spot." — Tom A., Howick, NZ, July 2024
Inside the Airport
"AKL's International Terminal has some great dining options. If you have time, try the local fish and chips at the food court. It's a nice taste of New Zealand before you fly." — Hana R., Pukekohe, NZ, August 2024
"Don't miss out on the duty-free shopping. The selection is impressive, especially for liquor and cosmetics. It's a good idea to check the prices beforehand online." — Alex J., Glenfield, NZ, June 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) as soon as you arrive. It gives real-time updates that can save you from missing a gate change." — Sarah N., Henderson, NZ, September 2024
"If you're traveling during peak times, arrive at least three hours early for international flights. Security lines can be long, and it's better to be safe than sorry." — Ben P., Takapuna, NZ, October 2024
iFly Tip: Get an insider's look at the flight process with our flight explanation guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At the airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at both the Domestic and International Terminals. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so it is important to plan accordingly.
Curbside parking is only allowed for a maximum of five minutes, and drivers must remain with their vehicle at all times. If you need more time to pick up or drop off your passengers, there are several short-term parking options available, including the Park & Ride and Park & Walk facilities.
If you are picking up passengers and need to wait for their flight to arrive, there are designated cell-phone waiting areas located near both terminals. These areas allow drivers to wait in their vehicle until their passengers are ready to be picked up, without having to circle the airport or pay for parking.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're flying out of Auckland Airport, you have several parking options to choose from. The airport offers both covered and uncovered parking, with a range of prices depending on your needs and budget. There are also off-airport parking options available, which can be a more economical choice for travelers.
The parking lots and garages at Auckland Airport are conveniently located near both the Domestic and International Terminals. If you're dropping off or picking up passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available where you can wait for your party to arrive without having to pay for parking.
If you require handicapped parking, there are designated spots available in all of the airport's parking facilities. These spots are located close to the terminal entrances for easy access.
If you're looking for a more affordable parking option, off-airport parking may be the way to go. These lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminals. While prices may vary depending on the lot, off-airport parking can be a great way to save money on parking fees.
Get details about AKL parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
If you're flying into AKL Airport, there are several transportation options available to help you get to your destination.
- Car rental: Car rental facilities are located at both the international and domestic terminals. Major providers include Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty. You can book a rental car in advance or at the rental counters located in the terminals.
- Taxis: If you prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi stands outside both terminals. Fares are metered and vary depending on your destination. The approximate fare to Auckland CBD is NZD 75-85.
- Ride share services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Zoomy are available at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside both terminals. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed.
- Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are another option for transportation. These services offer door-to-door service to your destination. Pickup areas are located outside both terminals. Fares vary depending on your destination and the number of passengers.
- Public transportation: Public transportation options include the SkyBus, which operates 24/7 and provides service between the airport and Auckland CBD. The fare is NZD 18 one way for adults. There are also bus and train options available, with fares varying depending on your destination.
iFly Tip: Find out how TSA PreCheck can improve your airport experience.
Airport Hotels
Discover the convenience and comfort of staying near the airport with our guide to the best hotel options. From luxurious establishments boasting state-of-the-art facilities to budget-friendly options offering essential amenities, there's something for every traveler. Our carefully curated list includes hotels that provide not only comfort and convenience but also easy access to local attractions and the bustling city center. Some even offer complimentary shuttle services, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Explore our list of AKL Airport Hotels now.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Embark on a culinary journey at Auckland Airport, where a diverse range of dining options awaits. From fresh sushi at Hayama Sushi to locally sourced ingredients at Pier Cafe, there's something for every taste and time constraint. And when it comes to shopping, AKL has you covered with a variety of stores to explore, from duty-free bargains at The Loop to handcrafted jewelry at Mountain Jade. For more detailed information about some of the most popular restaurants, shops, and stores at the airport, please visit our food and shopping guide.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at AKL can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, see your options here.
Passenger Services
Auckland Airport is one of the busiest airports in New Zealand, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport provides a range of passenger services to make your travel experience comfortable and convenient.
For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Lost and found services are also available at both the Domestic and International Terminals, so you can easily retrieve any lost items.
Traveling with children? Auckland Airport has dedicated children's play areas in both terminals, providing a safe and fun environment for kids to play and burn off some energy before their flight. For passengers with special needs, the airport offers a range of services including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and designated parking spaces.
If you need to access banking services, there are ATMs and currency exchange counters located throughout the airport. Additionally, medical help is available at the airport's medical center, which is staffed by qualified medical professionals and open 24/7.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. At AKL, there are several ways to get flight status information.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays show real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display board located in your terminal and search for your flight number.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines have their own app that allows passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. You can also sign up to receive text, email, or push notifications from your airline.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at AKL 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: Auckland Airport (AKL) is located in Auckland, New Zealand.
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Qantas. For a complete list of airlines, visit the AKL Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Auckland Airport handles approximately 20 million passengers annually, with an average of 55,000 passengers per day.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 400 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from AKL are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Christchurch.
- Hub Status: Auckland Airport is a hub for Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia.
Airport History
The airport is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, serving as the primary gateway to the country. The airport has a rich history dating back to the early 1920s, when it was first established as a grass runway for the Auckland Aero Club.
Over the years, Auckland Airport has undergone significant expansion and development, with a number of key events shaping its history:
- 1930: The first commercial flight takes off from Auckland Airport, operated by Union Airways of New Zealand.
- 1960s: The airport undergoes a major redevelopment, including the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
- 1970s: The airport becomes a hub for Air New Zealand, which launches a number of international routes from Auckland.
- 1980s: AKL sees a significant increase in passenger traffic, prompting further expansion and development.
- 2008: A new international terminal is opened, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and technology.
- 2011: AKL Airport hosts the Rugby World Cup, with thousands of fans passing through the airport during the tournament.
- 2018: A second runway is proposed for the airport, with plans for construction to begin in the coming years.
Today, Auckland Airport continues to play a vital role in New Zealand's aviation industry, connecting millions of passengers to destinations around the world.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Auckland Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: AKL
- Airport Website
- Phone: +64 9-275 0789
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Auckland Airport, Private Bag 92007, Auckland 2150, New Zealand
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Auckland Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport