Auckland

Travel to Auckland

Flights to Auckland take around 28 hours from the UK and involve at least one stopover along the way. Prices definitely reflect this length and tend to stay quite high. Get the best deals by travelling in the off-peak season, booking nice and early and shopping around for the best price. Flights from the major airports, particularly those in London tend to be cheapest.
Auckland Airport Website

On arrival in Auckland

Auckland Airport lies to the south of the city, so journey times will decrease if you're staying in the suburbs. There is a shuttle bus that runs regularly throughout the day and night, serving various locations in the city. Auckland's local bus service connects with the train line, which is another, cheaper, option. Private shuttles and taxis are also available and can be good value if you share the cost with a group, and car hire is also on hand from the airport if you want some independence.

Getting around Auckland

The bus is the most popular mode of public transport in Auckland for tourists and locals alike, with most of the major attractions served. However with three separate companies operating routes it's hard to get much of a saving for multiple trips. The free Central Business District bus is great value though! Auckland's train line doesn't really reach the suburbs but can be a handy option where it does reach - particularly when the roads are congested. Taxis can be costly, especially when travelling longer distances, and hiring a car, whilst useful, may leave you sitting in traffic on a regular basis. Ferries across the bays provide a great way to beat the tailbacks and get out and about.

Travelling further afield

Domestic flights are a great way of spending more time sightseeing and less time travelling, particularly if you want to experience both North and South Island on the same holiday to New Zealand. Train travel is a lovely way of seeing the countryside and the train to Wellington passes through bushland, coastline, volcanic landscapes and lush parkland on its 12 hour trip. Long distance coach travel is similarly scenic, if a little slower, but more destinations across the island are offered. Hiring a car is the best way to explore the harder to reach areas such as coastal regions and national parks.