Find cheap flights to Auckland

Buses

Auckland Transport operated Metro buses which run from approximately 6.30 a.m. to 11.30 p.m. are the best way to get around the city. The buses have 3 routes – CityLink (red buses) within the CBD, the InnerLink (green buses) which is a circular route throughout central Auckland, and OuterLink (orange buses) that serve Auckland’s inner suburbs. For the CityLink buses the maximum fare is $1 NZD per adult, while fares for the other 2 routes range from $3 NZD – $10 NZD depending on the number of zones you travel.

Trains

Auckland’s train network has 4 lines that take you to South, East and West Auckland. Trains run every 10 minutes at rush hour, every 20 minutes at non-peak hours and every 30 minutes in the evenings and on weekends. Trains are a convenient option to commute to the major shopping destinations of Newmarket, Sylvia Park, New Lynn and Dress-Smart at Onehunga. Some of the other Auckland attractions such as Rainbows End Adventure Park and Auckland War Memorial Museum are also located close to train stations. Train fares are same as the buses fares and are priced basis the number of zones travelled.

Ferries

To visit neighbourhoods like Devenport and Waiheke Island, you can use the city’s ferry system. Tickets can be purchased at the CBD’s Downtown Ferry Terminal. One-way adult fare starts at $6.50 NZD while a round-trip starts at $12.00 NZD.

Taxis

There are a handful of taxi operators in Auckland charging varying rates. Typical rates start at $3.00 NZD, plus $3.00 NZD for every additional kilometres and $50.00 NZD for 1 hour waiting.

Rental Cars

Driving your own vehicle is a good way to get around Auckland, especially if you plan to explore the neighbouring areas outside the city limits. Try to stay off the roads during the rush hours from 7.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. and remember that the Kiwis drive on the left side of the road.

Australian citizens or visitors with an Australian resident return visa do not need a visa to travel to New Zealand. For foreign nationals, please check the New Zealand Immigration website.

Things to do and places of interest in Auckland

Whether you are an adventure junkie, foodie, culture enthusiast or a sports lover, the cosmopolitan city of Auckland has something for everyone.

• Meet local marine mammals such as bottlenose dolphins, Brydes whales and orca at the daily marine mammal eco-safaris in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.
• Take a ferry to Davenport Island and enjoy a drink or meal or some shopping or explore the World War II tunnels and gun emplacements in North Head.
• Explore the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, where you can walk to the summit of the black lava volcanic island Rangitoto, enjoy wine tasting and beachcombing at Waiheke Island, sunbathe and swim at Motuihe Island or visit the wildlife sanctuary on Tiritiri Matangi.
• Get up-close and personal with sharks and penguins at the Kelly Tarlton’s Antartic Encounter and Underwater World.
• For a wilderness adventure, checkout the Great Barrier Island tracks that lead to secluded natural hot springs and historic kauri dams.
• Take a day-tour to see the famed Hobbiton Movie Set or a boat ride through Waitomo Glow-worm Caves to see thousands of glow-worms illuminate the cave ceiling.
• Go to the top of Sky Tower and take in 360 degree views of the city or attempt a base jump off the viewing platform by wire.
• Walk the Coast to Coast Walkway to discover the unique features of Auckland, get a great little exercise, and also some bragging rights to tell your loved ones that crossed the width of New Zealand on foot!
• Immerse in the Maori culture when you the performances at the Auckland War Memorial Museum including a welcome dance, poi dance, stick game, weaponry display and haka.
• The Auckland Zoo or the Rainbows End Adventure Park at Manukau City ensure some fun-filled entertainment for all ages.

Tips and tricks for visiting Auckland

Get the AT HOP Card

Save considerably on your travel cost by picking up an AT HOP card, a reusable smart card for travel on trains, ferries and buses. The card costs $10 NZD and saves you up to 20% on a single ride.

Take advantage of the ‘free’ activities

In the summer months, watch a film outside at Silo Park for free. Bring a deck chair and a picnic and enjoy a cult classic. Watch a cricket match between amateur teams for free, at the Victoria Park on most weekends. Enjoy a leisurely walk at Cornwall Park which features jogging and bike paths, a tennis club, a farm and remnants of a pre-European Mauri fort. Don’t leave without taking in the views at the park’s lookout point called One Tree Hill. Try the Auckland Free Walking Tour to learn about the city’s history, architecture and people.

Dress in layers

Auckland can experience 4 seasons in a single day and it can rain at any time in Auckland. Dress in layers and always keep a light rain jacket or an umbrella handy.