Auckland Airport Transfers (AKL)

Touching down in the "City of Sails"? Welcome! Your adventure in New Zealand’s largest city begins the moment you land. Navigating a new airport can be a hassle, but with our premier Auckland airport transfers, your journey from the terminal to your destination is one less thing to worry about. Forget the long queues and uncertainty; a smooth, pre-booked ride is waiting for you.

This guide is your ultimate companion to Auckland Airport (AKL) and the beautiful city it serves. We’ll walk you through the airport’s layout, amenities, and your best options for getting around, ensuring your trip starts and ends in absolute comfort and style with a reliable airport transfer.

AKL Airport Overview

Auckland airport stands as New Zealand's busiest international gateway, welcoming over 21 million passengers annually. It serves as Air New Zealand's primary hub and Jetstar's operational base in New Zealand.

The airport consists of two separate terminals, and it's helpful to know which one you'll be using:

• International Terminal: This is where all international flights arrive and depart. It’s a large, modern building with three levels, handling everything from check-ins and arrivals on the ground floor to departures and security on the first floor.

   

• Domestic Terminal: Serving all flights within New Zealand.

These are conveniently located approximately 500 meters apart. A free shuttle bus operates between the two terminals every 15 minutes. Alternatively, a clearly signposted walkway allows for a pleasant 10-minute stroll between the terminals.

Airlines at Auckland International Airport

International Terminal

• Air Canada
• Air China
• Air New Zealand  
• Air Tahiti Nui  
• Aircalin
• American Airlines  
• Cathay Pacific
• China Airlines  
• China Eastern Airlines  
• China Southern Airlines  
• Delta Air Lines
• Emirates  
• Fiji Airways  
• Hainan Airlines  
• Hawaiian Airlines  
• Jetstar  
• Korean Air
• LATAM Chile  
• Malaysia Airlines
• Qantas
• Qatar Airways  
• Singapore Airlines  
• Solomon Airlines
• United Airlines

Domestic Terminal

• Air Chathams
• Air New Zealand
• Barrier Air
• Jetstar

Auckland International Airport Lounges

Airport lounges offer a tranquil space to relax or catch up on work before your flight. Several lounges are available for eligible passengers at Auckland Airport.

International Terminal

• Strata Lounge: This is a pay-per-use lounge, accessible to passengers of any airline and class. It offers a comfortable and stylish space with complimentary food and beverages, including local wines, shower facilities, a kids' play area, and business workstations. Members of programs like Priority Pass can also access this lounge.

   

• Air New Zealand Lounge: Open to Air New Zealand Business Premier passengers and eligible Koru members, this spacious lounge boasts excellent views of the runway. It features a variety of seating areas, a buffet with fresh local cuisine, a full-service bar, and shower facilities.

   

• Qantas Lounge: Qantas premium passengers and oneworld elite members can enjoy this modern lounge. It offers a selection of food and beverages, a business center, and shower amenities to help you freshen up.

   

• Emirates Lounge: Exclusively for Emirates First and Business Class passengers and eligible Skywards members, this lounge provides a luxurious experience with gourmet dining, a full bar service, and comfortable seating areas.

Domestic Terminal

Air New Zealand’s domestic lounge provides a comfortable environment for eligible travelers. It features a cafe-style food offering, a bar serving New Zealand wines and beers, barista-made coffee, and various zones for working or relaxing.

Auckland Airport Hotels

For ultimate convenience, especially for early morning departures or late-night arrivals, staying at an on-site hotel is an excellent option.

• Novotel Auckland Airport: Located directly outside the international terminal, the Novotel offers 4-star-plus comfort and convenience. The soundproofed rooms ensure a restful sleep, while the on-site restaurant and bar provide quality dining options. It features a 24/7 fitness center and is just a short walk from the check-in counters.

   

• Pullman Auckland Airport: For a 5-star luxury experience, the Pullman is situated just a 100-meter walk from the international terminal. This hotel offers premium, contemporary rooms, a top-floor restaurant and bar with panoramic views, a fully equipped fitness center, and sophisticated meeting facilities.

   

• Ibis Budget Auckland Airport: A short 10-minute walk from the domestic terminal, the Ibis Budget offers a comfortable and affordable option. 

AKL Airport Shops

International Terminal

After passing through security, you'll find a world of shopping. For high-end fashion and accessories, visit Coach, Hugo Boss, or Kate Spade. Discover exquisite jewelry at Swarovski or Mountain Jade. The Aelia Duty Free and The Loop Duty Free stores offer extensive selections of liquor, cosmetics, fragrances, and electronics at tax-free prices. 

You can also find New Zealand souvenirs and gifts at stores like Kiwi Discovery and The All Blacks Store. For travel necessities and reading materials, Relay has you covered.

Domestic Terminal

While smaller, the domestic terminal still offers essential shopping. You'll find a Relay for news, books, and snacks, and The Travel Store for luggage and travel accessories. 3 Wise Men offers quality men's shirts, and you can grab a souvenir to remember your trip through New Zealand.

Auckland Airport Restaurants

International Terminal

Before security, you can grab a coffee and a freshly baked item from Oma Artisan Bakery & Cafe. After security, your options expand significantly. Enjoy a classic burger from Better Burger or try the Montreal-style bagels at Best Ugly Bagels. 

For a relaxed dining experience with runway views, head to Wondertree or Vantage Bar and Kitchen. Mexico offers vibrant Mexican cuisine, while Aroha Café & Bar provides fresh, locally inspired dishes.

Domestic Terminal

In the domestic terminal, The Gipsy Moth is a popular pub-style restaurant offering a great selection of classic meals and craft beers in a relaxed setting. For a quick and healthy option, Bistro Box serves fresh salads, sandwiches, and coffee. You'll also find several cafes perfect for a pre-flight pick-me-up.

Auckland Airport Transportation Options

Understanding your transportation choices helps you make informed decisions about getting to and from the AKL airport. Multiple airport transportation services operate with varying price points, service levels, and convenience factors.

TravelThru Airport Transfer Service

Our carefully selected fleet accommodates various group sizes and preferences. Luxury sedans offer supreme comfort for business travelers, while spacious SUVs and vans cater perfectly to families and larger groups. All vehicles feature climate control, premium seating, and modern amenities that make your journey enjoyable.

When you choose TravelThru's chauffeur service, you receive more than transportation – you gain access to extensive local knowledge. Our drivers can provide insights about Auckland's attractions, dining recommendations, and hidden gems that enhance your visit. We accommodate special requests such as child seats, wheelchair accessibility, or scenic route preferences.

With our easy booking and real-time flight tracking, you can relax knowing your ride will be there when you are, even if your flight is delayed. 

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Public Buses: The AirportLink bus connects the airport to the wider Auckland train and bus network via Puhinui Station and Manukau Bus Station. 

   

• Taxis and Shuttles: Traditional taxis and shared shuttles are readily available. They are located outside the arrivals area at the international terminal (door 8) and outside the domestic terminal (door 4). A fare from the airport to the city ranges between NZ$38 and NZ$80 one-way.

   

• Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Ola operate from a dedicated rideshare zone at both terminals.

Things to do in Auckland, New Zealand

Once you're settled, it's time to explore the "City of Sails." Auckland offers a stunning mix of natural wonders and urban excitement. Here are a few must-do activities:

Iconic city landmarks

• Sky Tower: 328-meter observation deck with panoramic views.
• SkyJump adventure experience for thrill-seekers.
• Historic Viaduct Harbor with dining and entertainment.
• Auckland War Memorial Museum showcases Māori culture.
• Auckland Art Gallery with extensive local and international collections.

Harbor and island adventures

• Waitemata Harbor sailing and ferry experiences.
• Rangitoto Island's volcanic landscapes and bush walks.
• Waiheke Island wineries and artistic communities.
• Mission Bay beaches are within city limits.
• Hauraki Gulf fishing and marine wildlife viewing.

Natural attractions

• Waitakere Ranges rainforest hiking trails
• Dramatic black sand beaches on the west coast
• Regional parks with diverse ecosystems
• Volcanic crater exploration opportunities
• Native bird watching in protected reserves

Wine and culinary experiences

• Waiheke Island boutique wineries with stunning views
• Kumeu wine region cellar door experiences
• Diverse restaurant scene featuring local ingredients
• Fresh seafood and international cuisine options
• Coffee culture with exceptional local roasters

How to Get Around Auckland and Beyond

Auckland offers a variety of public transport options to help you explore the city and its beautiful surroundings.

TravelThru's City-to-City Services

Beyond airport transfer services, TravelThru also offers extensive intercity travel throughout New Zealand's beautiful regions. Our city-to-city services connect Auckland to popular destinations like Rotorua's geothermal wonders, Taupo's pristine lakes, and the Bay of Islands' maritime heritage.

We can arrange comprehensive multi-day itineraries with accommodation recommendations and activity bookings tailored to your interests and budget.

Other Options

Your all-in-one travel card

For the most seamless travel experience, use the AT HOP card. This reusable prepay card can be used on all buses, trains, and ferries.

By bus

Buses are the most common and affordable way to travel around Auckland, with an extensive network covering most of the city. Buses will take you almost anywhere you need to go in Auckland.

If you're a tourist in Auckland, then the Auckland Explorer Bus is a great option to explore the city's attractions. Operating every 30 minutes, this hop-on, hop-off bus conveniently covers all major city tourist attractions, including the Sky Tower, Auckland Museum, and the waterfront.

By train

While the train network is less extensive than the bus system, it offers a faster way to reach destinations in the southern parts of Auckland. The four main train lines are:

• Southern Line
• Onehunga Line
• Western Line
• Eastern Line

By Ferry

For breathtaking harbor views and access to unique islands, the ferry is an excellent choice. Popular destinations include:

• Waiheke Island: Famous for its vineyards and beaches.
• Rangitoto Island: A volcanic island offering breathtaking hiking trails.
• Devonport: Just across the harbor, you'll discover a charming historic village.