travel times auckland

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The best time of year to visit Auckland

Oct 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Choose the best time of year to visit Auckland with this seasonal guide © denizunlusu / Getty Images

New Zealand's biggest and most cosmopolitan city, Auckland , is a year-round destination.

Its regular schedule of cultural and culinary events are part of its appeal, with plenty of free attractions to experience . Kiwis love to explore their own country, so school holidays  –  which happen throughout the year in New Zealand – can drive up prices and lower availability for accommodation and attractions. Planning a trip outside of those times will help to alleviate the higher overall costs associated with the country also known as Aotearoa .

January to April is the best time for warm weather and summer festivals

Warmer and (usually) drier, the summer months of January to April are some of the best times to visit Auckland. Popular annual festivals feature arts, music and dance, often reflecting the city's role as the unofficial cultural capital of Polynesia.

Anniversary Day Regatta takes place in January – head up to the top of the Sky Tower for the best views of the event and to see for yourself why Auckland is dubbed the "City of Sails". This is the perfect time of year to visit Auckland's rugged west coast beaches and the islands of the Hauraki Gulf . January also marks the beginning of three months of free council-sponsored entertainment, starting with the popular Music in Parks and Movies in Parks programs. 

February remains sunny and warm for the music, dance and cultural extravaganza of Splore , and for Pride , the inclusive celebration of the LGBTIQ+ community. The Auckland Blues and Moana Pasifika Super Rugby teams kick off their seasons late in the month. Accommodation prices soften slightly in February and March, after the summer school holidays; Easter can again be more expensive.

March's late summer weather is the backdrop for the  Pasifika Festival 's celebration of Auckland's South Pacific communities from Samoa, Tonga, Niue and the Cook Islands. The Auckland Lantern Festival illuminates Chinese New Year, Waiheke Island is enlivened with spectacular clifftop sculptures and arts spaces around central Auckland present an eclectic program from local and international performers during the Auckland Arts Festival . With a proud maritime history including multiple wins in yachting's America's Cup, Auckland is one of the world's great harborside cities. The Boat Show  in March presents the best of Auckland's salt-spray-tinged personality.

Street food, music, and a seven-a-side soccer tournament are highlights of April's CultureFest, which represents the 70-plus global communities that call Auckland home. The arrival of cooler fall weather also sees audiences filling cozy venues for barrels of laughs from Kiwi and overseas comedians at the NZ International Comedy Festival .

May to August is the time for Māori New Year and food and drink festivals

Indoor festivals provide shelter from cooler winter weather. Neighborhoods on the fringes of the city center – including Ponsonby, Parnell and Mt Eden – offer good-value accommodation, making ideal bases for venturing downtown. 

In May, readings, conversation and performances at Auckland Writers Festival  bring to life fiction, nonfiction and poetry, providing inspiration for Auckland book lovers as the city's weather cools heading further into winter. Sports fans watch the Blues and Moana Pasifika (rugby union) or the Warriors (rugby league); Auckland's welcoming pubs are top places to catch all the action on the big screen. 

The annual Matariki Festival  marks the Māori New Year. It follows the lunar calendar but is typically in June. Since first becoming a public holiday in 2022, it's continued to grow in scope and importance. Winter's shorter days and longer nights set the stage for various events based around traditional Māori cosmology; rain becomes more prevalent though, so fingers crossed for clear skies for stargazing.

July is when New Zealand's All Blacks are playing rugby matches at Eden Park , usually against traditional rivals such as Australia and South Africa, but also visiting teams from France, Ireland, and the UK. It's often cool, so bundle up for the game. Craft-beer fans look forward to GABS Festival , Australasia's best brewfest, while Elemental AKL fills inner-city public spaces with one-off culinary and cultural events.

Often the coolest and wettest month of the year, August is the ideal time to dive into Auckland's eating and drinking scene. Highlights of Restaurant Month include themed dinners and fixed-price special menus, an affordable way to experience the city's culinary diversity.

September to December is the best time to learn about the city's history

The southern hemisphere spring months of September to December are also a good time to visit. Mild weather is ideal for walking atop the city's dormant volcanic field, and the occasional rain shower cools things down.

Fresher spring breezes in September make it a good time to sail a yacht on Waitematā Harbour. Days are lengthening as spring approaches in October, and the Auckland Heritage Festival offers free access to various museums, historical locations and events around town. The weather's still cool, conducive to learning about the Māori history of Auckland's maunga (ancestral mountains), or catching a ferry across the harbor and walking up the dormant volcano of Rangitoto Island.

New Zealand's best up-and-coming rugby players feature in the National Provincial Championship from August to November. (Hopefully the Auckland NPC team has made the finals.) Fireworks light up Auckland's soaring Sky Tower on November 5 for the annual Guy Fawkes festival, a legacy of New Zealand's British colonial past.

High above the surf beaches of Muriwai Beach  on Auckland's west coast, walking trails lead to clifftop views of a gannet colony – the city's favorite avians – with the first chicks being born in December at the Takapu Refuge. By January they're testing their wings on short flights, ahead of their trans-Tasman migration to Australia in March. Before summer heats up and the west coast gets busy again, it's also a good time to hike the clifftop Mercer Bay Loop Walk at Piha Beach. New Year's Eve sees even more spectacular fireworks shooting out from the top of the Sky Tower.

This article was first published Jan 28, 2022 and updated Oct 17, 2023.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Auckland Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 17, 2023

Auckland is the largest and most populous city in New Zealand (though contrary to popular belief, it is not the capital). Pretty much anyone coming to New Zealand is going to visit Auckland. As the country’s main airport, all long-haul international flights are going to land here.

As a tourist destination, I don’t think this is one of New Zealand’s best places. I found the city to be a bit ugly, sprawling, and sort of bland. There are some fun activities, good restaurants, and hip nightlife here so I wouldn’t write the city off completely.

But I also wouldn’t spend a lot of time here as there are more exciting and more beautiful places in the country. I would spend three or four days here before moving on.

This travel guide to Auckland will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time here.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Auckland

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Auckland

1. Day trip to Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island is just 21 kilometers (13 miles) from Auckland and is home to scenic beaches, wineries, hiking trails, and other fun outdoor activities. It’s especially known for its wine and is even known as New Zealand’s “Island of Wine,” with dozens of vineyards to visit. Waiheke makes a great day trip from Auckland and is easy to explore by bike, bus, or rental car. There are regular ferries to the island which cost 35-46 NZD (round trip) and take 45 minutes.

2. Visit the Auckland Zoo

Opened in 1922, the Auckland Zoo is a not-for-profit zoo that is home to over 1,400 animals from 144 different species. Covering almost 16 hectares (40 acres), the zoo has several different habitats, including rainforests and savannahs (the latter of which is home to giraffes, zebras, ostriches, cheetah, and other amazing animals from Africa). Admission is 24 NZD.

3. Head to Waitakere Ranges

The Waitakere Ranges are a chain of hills that stretch 25 kilometers (15 miles) across the North Island. The Waitakere Ranges Regional Park boasts 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) of walking trails, such as The Mercer Bay Loop Track and the Tasman Lookout Walk (both easy strolls). There are also impressive waterfalls, scenic black sand beaches, and lush rainforests here. Unfortunately, all of the forested areas of the park are closed to reduce the spread of the uncurable kauri dieback disease which is killing the ancient kauri trees that are native to the area.

4. Climb up Sky Tower

Standing over 328 meters (1,076 feet) tall and completed in 1997, Sky Tower is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere. It not only offers panoramic views over the city but also has a revolving restaurant on top. Adult admission is 32 NZD. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can bungy jump from an observation deck or walk along the tightrope-walk-like deck while in a harness. Jumps start at 169 NZD while the SkyWalk is 113 NZD.

5. Hang out on the Auckland Domain

Created in the 1840s, the Auckland Domain is the city’s oldest park. When the weather is nice, you’ll find locals here running, playing sports, and reading. The Auckland Museum can be found here along with a monument to the first Maori king (admission is 28 NZD). At 75 hectares (190 acres), it’s one of the largest parks in the city and offers a lot of serene walking trails and beautiful gardens too.

Other Things to See and Do in Auckland

1. explore the hauraki gulf.

This coastal area is where you can scuba dive, fish, go boating, sail, and go whale watching. For some hiking, visit Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island in the gulf (it’s Auckland’s youngest volcano). You can reach the summit in four hours and there are also some lava caves near the peak that you can explore (bring a flashlight). For a more relaxing time, head to Motuihe Island and lounge on the beach. And, to learn about the region’s past, visit the historic mansion house on Kawau Island, which dates back to 1845. Waiheke (mentioned above) and Great Barrier are the largest islands in the gulf and are worth visiting as well.

2. Feed lambs at Sheepworld

New Zealand is known for having more sheep than people (there are approximately 6 times as many sheep as people in the country). Sheep play an important economic role in the country, which is why you should plan a visit to Sheepworld. It’s a small family farm located 45 minutes from Auckland by bus. At Sheepworld, you’ll be able to see how sheep are raised and sheared and you’ll also learn about the wool-making processes that occur afterward. Admission is 22.50 NZD.

3. Shop at the Otara Flea Market

This large Polynesian and Maori market takes place every Saturday from 6am-12pm. Located 20 kilometers (12 miles) from downtown, it’s the most popular market in the city and has been around since 1976. You’ll find a bit of everything here, from secondhand and new clothing to traditional Maori bone carvings. There are some amazing deals here as well as delicious foods and snacks (mostly Polynesian/South Pacific dishes are available). Bring an appetite!

4. Wander the North Shore

The North Shore is Auckland’s main beach area. Swimming, kayaking, and surfing here are popular activities. There’s a great sailing scene here too, as many of New Zealand’s successful international sailors began their careers at North Shore yacht clubs. You’ll also find a lively nightlife here if you stick around after sunset.

5. Check out MOTAT

The Museum of Transport and Technology is an interactive science and technology museum that’s home to over 300,000 items and exhibits, including steam engines, historic trams, and aircraft dating back to the early 1900s (they also have the largest aviation display in the Southern Hemisphere). The MOTAT is located near the zoo so you could do both together. Admission is 19 NZD.

6. Visit Howick Historical Village

The Howick Historical Village is a museum that recreates life in colonial New Zealand. Staff are dressed in period costumes dating to the mid-1800s to really make it a historically accurate and immersive experience. Sure, it’s a little cheesy but it’s fun for kids (and educational too). They have a blacksmith, a mock classroom, and even a fake contingent of soldiers. Admission is 16 NZD.

7. Walk through Waikumete Cemetery

Spanning a massive 108 hectares (266 acres), this cemetery is the largest in the entire country and the final resting place of over 70,000 people, including almost 300 Commonwealth soldiers from World War I and II. Friends of Waikumete offers daily guided walks of the cemetery to explain more about the grounds and the people buried in the cemetery. Tours are 5 NZD.

8. See the Muriwai Gannet Colony

At this coastal park you can find thousands of breeding gannets (large white seabirds) nesting between the black sand dunes. They are here between August and March and there are two viewing platforms where you can watch the birds. If you’re not a bird person, you can also come to Muriwai Beach for surfing. There are also trails for biking and hiking nearby. The colony is located around 40 minutes by car from Auckland.

9. Go bungy jumping

AJ Hackett, the man who invented modern-day bungy jumping, grew up in Auckland and has two jumps available in the city for anyone looking to get their adrenaline pumping. First, there is a 40-meter (131-foot) plunge from the Harbour Bridge (which dunks you into the ocean) that costs 165 NZD. There is also a 192-meter jump from the Sky Tower that costs 169 NZD. If you don’t want to bungy jump, AJ Hackett also operates a Sky Walk on the Sky Tower, which lets you walk around the exterior of the tower for a 360-degree panorama of the city (you’re attached to safety lines so there is no risk of falling). The Sky Tower walk is 113 NZD.

10. Snorkel on Goat Island

Located just 800 meters (2,625 feet) from shore, Goat Island is a small island within a protected marine reserve. It’s one of New Zealand’s top snorkeling spots and home to abundant colorful fish. Expect to pay around 75 NZD for snorkeling gear and a guide. If you want to scuba dive, expect to pay around 110 NZD for equipment and a guide. If you’d rather stay dry, rent a “clearyak” (clear kayak). You can find rentals on the coast for around 60 NZD per 30 minutes (kayaks fit 2 people).

11. Travel to Hobbiton

Journey to Middle Earth with a visit to the Hobbiton movie set featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Expect crowds, as this is easily one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions. You must go on a tour to see Hobbiton. It starts with a drive through the owners’ 1,250-acre sheep farm with some epic views over the Kaimai Ranges. From here, you can explore Bag End, wander around the hobbit holes, and visit the Green Dragon Inn. If you’re a LOTR fan, you can’t pass this up. Tours start at 89 NZD. It’s located 2 hours from Auckland, with many guided tours departing from the city.

  For more information on other destinations in New Zealand, check out these guides:

• Bay of Islands Travel Guide
• Christchurch Travel Guide
• Franz Josef Travel Guide
• Nelson Travel Guide
• Queenstown Travel Guide
• Rotorua Travel Guide
• Taupo Travel Guide
• Waitomo Travel Guide
• Wanaka Travel Guide
• Wellington Travel Guide

Auckland Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorms with 4-6 beds cost 35-45 NZD per night while dorms with 8-10 beds cost 28-35 NZD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have self-catering facilities if you want to cook your own food. Only a couple of hostels include free breakfast so be sure to book those hostels in advance if that’s a priority for you. Private rooms are around 100-110 NZD. Prices for hostels don’t fluctuate too much by season.

There are several campgrounds outside of the city with prices starting at 10 NZD per night for a basic plot (a flat space for a tent, usually without electricity). If you’re driving a self-contained camper van (one with its own water supply and bathroom), there are plenty of free places to park overnight in and around the city as well.

Budget hotel prices – For a budget two-star hotel, prices start at 90 NZD per night. These usually include free Wi-Fi; however, two-star hotels are rare in Auckland. Three-star hotels are much more common, costing around 100 NZD per night.

Airbnb is available in the city with private rooms starting at 50 NZD, though they average closer to 80 NZD per night. For an entire home/apartment, expect to pay at least 90-100 NZD per night (double that if you don’t book early).

Food – Food in Auckland consists mostly of seafood, lamb, fish and chips, and specialties like Maori hangi (meat and vegetables cooked underground). Expect to indulge on things like roast lamb, muscles, scallops, oysters, and snapper. As a large city, Auckland also has a lot of options for eating out, including sushi, Korean, Thai, and Chinese food.

A cheap meal of traditional cuisine costs around 20 NZD. A burger is around 11-15 NZD while fish dishes are 28-36 NZD. For upscale fine dining, a five-course restaurant meal with a drink costs about 140 NZD.

A fast-food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs around 13 NZD while takeaway fish and chips are 15-20 NZD. Chinese and Indian food can be found for 10-15 NZD while a small pizza costs around 14 NZD.

Beer costs 10-12 NZD, a glass of wine is 12-14 NZD, and a cocktail is 14-18 NZD. A latte/cappuccino costs 5 NZD while bottled water is 3 NZD.

If you choose to cook your own food, plan to spend around 75 NZD per week on basic foodstuffs like rice, pasta, vegetables, eggs, chicken, and some meat.

Backpacking Auckland Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Auckland for 85 NZD per day. On this budget, you’ll be staying in a dorm room, cooking all of your meals, doing free walking tours or outdoor activities, visiting just a few paid attractions, using public transportation to get around, and limiting your drinking. If you plan on drinking, att 10-20 NZD to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 185 NZD per day, you can stay in a private room in a hostel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, take the occasional taxi, enjoy a couple of drinks, and do more paid activities like visiting museums and going snorkeling. In short, you’ll have the flexibility to do what you want. You’re not going to live large but you’ll be able to get by without worrying too much about your spending.

On a “luxury” budget of 355 NZD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink more, take more taxis, visit museums, and do as many of the adventure activities that make the country famous as you’d like (such as bungy jumping). This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you really want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in NZD.

Auckland Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Auckland is an expensive city to visit. Costs can add up here quickly, especially if you are eating out a lot. If you find cheap accommodation, stick to happy hours, and cook most of your meals, you’ll be able to visit on a budget. Here are some ways to save money in Auckland:

• Learn to cook – The food scene in Auckland isn’t that mind-blowing. If you want to really save, cook your own food. When it comes to buying groceries, the cheaper supermarkets are Pakn’Save or Countdown.
• Hit happy hour – The backpacker bars have cheap happy hours. Hit them up and drink for cheap. Otherwise, plan to spend 10 NZD for a beer at the bar.
• WWOOF it – If you don’t mind staying outside of the city, WWOOFing is a great way to work for your accommodation and food. In return for working on a farm or B&B, you get free room and board. It’s a popular activity with travelers because it lets you stay in a place cheaper and longer. You can do it for a few days or a few months.
• Get a temporary job – If you’re running low on money and still have plenty of time left in New Zealand, check Backpackerboard.co.nz for temporary yet well-paying gigs.
• Clean in exchange for your room – Some hostels in the city will let you trade a few hours of cleaning and making beds for free accommodation. Ask at the front desk if this is an option.
• Stay with a local – While there are not a ton of options available in the city, it never hurts to check! If you don’t mind sleeping on a couch or floor, Couchsurfing is a great way to save some money and meet locals.
• Take a free walking tour – Auckland Free Walking Tour has a fun and insightful tour that will show you all the highlights of the city. It’s the best way to get the lay of the land — just be sure to tip your guide!
• Find cheap activities – The bookme.co.nz website provides last-minute discounts on activities (and pub crawls) throughout the country. Most of the activities are last minute, but if you’re flexible in when you want to do things, you can save up to 60% off attractions! I can’t recommend it enough.
• Transport vehicles – Campervan and car relocation services provide a free vehicle and gas as you drive it from one destination to another. This can be a great way to save a lot of money if you’re flexible with timing. Check Transfercar.co.nz to see what’s available.
• Enjoy nature – Remember that nature is free! New Zealand, home to the great walks of the world, has tons of free outdoor activities. While the adventure sports, wine tours, glacier treks, and boat cruises can eat into your budget, there are plenty of trails and walks to keep you busy!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water in Auckland is safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.
• Pet sit for free accommodation – House and pet sitting is very popular here since Kiwis often head abroad and need pet sitters. All you need to do is watch their pets/home while they’re away and you’ll get a free place to stay. Use a site like Trusted Housesitters to find the best gigs.

Where to Stay in Auckland

Auckland has a lot of hostels. They’re all pretty comfortable and sociable. Here are my recommended places to stay in the city:

• The Attic Backpackers
• Verandahs Backpackers Lodge
• Haka Lodge Auckland
• Waiheke Backpackers Hostel

How to Get Around Auckland

Public transportation – Buses are the most common way to get around the city. Prices are on a zone system, starting at 0.60 NZD within the city and going up depending on how far you travel. Cash is not accepted on buses, so you must get a AT Hop card for 10 NZD which also cuts ticket prices by 20-50%. You can purchase the AT Hop card at stores around the city. There is no day pass, but there is a daily fare cap (with the Hop card) of 20 NZD (this covers buses, trains, and local ferries).

To reach the suburbs, you can take the local commuter train, which uses the same fare system as the bus. Also, there are ferries running between downtown Auckland, the North Shore, East Auckland, and the islands. Fares start at 7.50 NZD (5 NZD with AT Hop card). Just keep in mind some ferries do not accept the Hop card so you’ll need to check in advance.

The airport is around 45 minutes from the city and an express bus ticket will cost 17 NZD (one-way).

Taxi – Taxis are expensive and should be avoided. Rates start at 3.50 NZD and go up by 2.65 NZD per kilometer. A flat-rate ride from the airport to the city center is 65-70 NZD. Unless you have no other option or are splitting a ride with other travelers, I’d avoid using taxis.

Bicycle – NextBike is the dockless bike share operating in Auckland. The Auckland special pass is just 4 NZD for one week of 30-minute unlimited rides. If you want to rent your own bike, expect to pay 30-40 NZD per day for a bike. For an electric, prices go as high as 90-100 NZD per day!

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Auckland and is usually cheaper than taking a taxi.

Car rental – Unless you’re planning to leave the city, you likely don’t need to rent a car here. Public transportation is clean, safe, and reliable. However, if you do need a car, expect to pay at least 40 NZD per day for a small vehicle (prices are cheaper the longer you rent). Keep in mind that they drive on the left here. An International Driver’s Permit (IDP) is required for car rentals.

When to Go to Auckland

Auckland is in the Southern Hemisphere, meaning when most North Americans are dealing with snow and freezing temperatures, Kiwis are enjoying their beaches. Overall, the climate here is temperate. Summer is from December-February and it’s the most popular time to visit the city. Kiwis also take their holidays during this time, so things get busy! Days are long and sunny, nights are mild. The average daytime temperature in the summer in Auckland is around 25°C (77°F).

Fall is from March-May, and it’s one of the best times to visit the city. The crowds have dispersed, prices are lower, and the weather is still warm.

Winter is from June-August. This is the cheapest time to visit as flights and accommodation are usually discounted. Snow isn’t common but it can be windy and wet, making it seem much cooler than it is. Temperatures hover around 7°C (45°F) during the day so make sure you dress for the weather.

There’s really no bad time to visit Auckland but since New Zealand is so expensive, the shoulder season is probably of the best times to visit if you’re on a budget.

How to Stay Safe in Auckland

Auckland is a pretty safe city to visit. There’s very little violent crime or theft. That said, it never hurts to always keep your valuables safe and secure just in case. But, in all my years visiting, I’ve never felt unsafe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re worried about travel scams, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here . However, there are hardly any in this city that a traveler needs to be worried about.

The biggest risk to travelers in Auckland is often natural disasters and unpredictable weather, including strong winds, heavy rain, and even hail. Earthquakes are common and can happen at any time (though they are not as destructive here as in other places in the country).

Consider downloading the Hazard App from the Red Cross to stay updated about weather events. It has all kinds of advice and tips for natural disasters and also sends out warnings and notifications should a disaster occur.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 111 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your important documents, like your passport.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Auckland Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• EatWith – This website allows you to eat home cooked meal with locals. Locals post listings for dinner parties and specialty meals that you can sign up for. There is a fee (everyone sets their own price) but this is a great way to do something different, pick a local’s brain, and make a new friend.
• bookme.co.nz – You’ll get some really good last minute deals and discounts on this website! Just select what area you’re traveling in, and see what activities are on sale.
• treatme.co.nz – The locals use this website to find discount hotels, restaurants, and tours. You can save up to 50% off things like catamaran sailing lessons or three-course dinners.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Auckland Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling in New Zealand and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Christchurch

Where to Stay in Christchurch: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Auckland

The Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

Where to Stay in Auckland: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hostels in Queenstown

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Auckland   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Onfokus | iStock

Best Times To Visit Auckland

The best times to visit Auckland are from March to May and between September and November. These shoulder months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. During peak season (December through February), you'll contend with swells of visitors and high airfare and room rates, but this is the best time to visit if you wish to experience summer fun with warmer temperatures and fewer rain showers. Between June and August, both temperatures and tourism drop off, however this is the time to go if you’re looking for a ski vacation in North Island hot spots like Mount Ruapehu. Before you pick your travel dates, you should note that the seasons are reversed here: Winter in New Zealand coincides with summer in the U.S., and vice versa.

Weather in Auckland

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Auckland

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

Explore More of Auckland

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# 2 in  Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific in 2023

# 14 in  Best Places to Visit in Australia and The Pacific in 2023

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The Best Time to Visit Auckland

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, when to visit auckland.

A vibrant city with a sub-tropical climate, there’s never really a “bad” time to visit Auckland. The city centre is always going to be busy, while some of the surrounding attractions, like the islands, parks and beaches have their busier periods. Most activities can be done year-round, so most travellers visit Auckland when the time is right for them. Nevertheless, we’ll go through the seasons, weather, busy times and low times in this guide to the best time to visit Auckland.

3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Time to Visit New Zealand

1. the weather and season.

The good thing about Auckland is that it never really experiences a “cold” winter season. Of course, if you do prefer hot and long sunny days or autumn leaves, then there are obviously better times to visit Auckland than others, so consider the season! Find out more about the weather in Auckland in our guide .

2. The Crowds

Auckland is a vibrant and busy city all year round, but many of the attractions surrounding Auckland are much busier during the New Zealand school holidays, as well as the high season for tourism. Keep the low and high season in mind!

3. The Cost

The local hotels, vehicle rental companies and even airlines know when most tourists prefer to come to New Zealand, so they take advantage of this by upping their prices, even in Auckland. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider visiting in one of the shoulder seasons or the low season.

We’ll address these factors in each section below!

Auckland Summer

Months : December, January and February Tourist Season : High Season

Auckland Weather in Summer

Temperature : 18-20 ° C (64-68 ° F) Rainfall : 90-110mm (3.5-4.3″)

Find out about the weather in each month in:

• New Zealand Weather in December
• New Zealand Weather in January
• New Zealand Weather in February

About Auckland Summer

Summer is the most popular time to visit Auckland. The weather is at its warmest and sunniest for outdoor activities or spending some time outside at one of the wineries. However, this also makes summer the most crowded time to visit Auckland, where it’s a good idea for travellers to book accommodation a few weeks in advance to avoid disappointment. Not only is this a popular time for international travellers to visit Auckland, but you’ll find that this is when many New Zealanders visit too, especially during the local school holidays – check out the holiday dates on the New Zealand Ministry of Education website . Be also aware that summer is the most expensive time of year to visit Auckland in terms of car rentals, flights and hotel rates.

Best Things to Do in Auckland in Summer

• Get out on the water on a kayak tour
• Make use of the campsites and walking trails of the Auckland regional parks
• Check out one of the free outdoor gigs and movies across the city
• Hit one of the many glorious Auckland beaches
• Visit the vineyards on Waiheke Island

Find out some other great places to visit in summer with our 5 Places to Visit in Summer in New Zealand .

Auckland Autumn

Months : March, April and May Tourist Season: High to Shoulder Season

Auckland Weather in Autumn

Temperature : 14-18 ° C (57-64 ° F) Rainfall : 120-140mm (4.7-5.5″)

• New Zealand Weather in March
• New Zealand Weather in April
• New Zealand Weather in May

About Auckland Autumn

If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit Auckland, while still want some comfortably warm weather, then autumn is a good time to visit. Auckland still feels a little busy in March, but April and May simmer down along with the prices of car rental, flights and hotels. The days might be getting a little cooler, but it’s still mild enough to only need one warm layer. However, you may want a rain jacket as it’s likely to have a few wet days. Toward April and May, you may also get the chance to see the brown and orange autumn colours in some of the city’s parks.

Things to Do in Auckland in Autumn

• Check out the views from atop the Sky Tower
• Relax with a hot coffee at the Viaduct Harbour
• Hop on a ferry to Devonport
• Check out the Auckland Art Gallery
• Explore the Auckland Domain

Find out some other great places to visit in autumn with our 5 Places to Visit in Autumn in New Zealand.

Auckland Winter

Months : June, July and August Tourist Season : Low Season

Auckland Weather in Winter

Temperature : 12 ° C (53 ° F) Rainfall : 150mm (5.9″)

• New Zealand Weather in June
• New Zealand Weather in July
• New Zealand Weather in August

About Auckland Winter

Winter in Auckland consists of some rainy days, winds and mild temperatures. Nevertheless, there’s still plenty to do in Auckland both indoors and outside, with not many operators shutting up shop for winter. Apart from in the city centre, Auckland often feels uncrowded during this time of the year, which makes winter one of the best times to visit places that are usually busy like Mt Eden and Rangitoto Island. Plus, prices for car rentals, hotels and flights are also usually at their lowest.

Things to Do in Auckland in Winter

• Take the ferry to the volcanic Rangitoto Island
• Try some of the culinary experiences around the city – check out our Foodie Guide to Auckland
• Visit the Auckland Museum
• Check out the views from inside the Sky Tower
• Do some indoor snowboarding at Snowplanet

Find out some other great places to visit in winter with our 5 Places to Visit in Winter in New Zealand .

Auckland Spring

Months : September, October and November Tourist Season : Low to Shoulder Season

Auckland Weather in Spring

Temperature : 13-16 ° C (56-60 ° F) Rainfall : 80-130mm (3.1-5.1″)

• New Zealand Weather in September
• New Zealand Weather in October
• New Zealand Weather in November

About Auckland Spring

Spring is always a refreshing time in Auckland when the clocks go forward, the sun warms up again, and the days get longer. In early spring, you can make the most of the quiet walking trails and parks before the crowds pick up again. October is when spring really starts to get into full swing, with the chance to see lambs in the countryside. Prices for hotels, car rentals and flights are reasonable until mid-November.

Things to Do in Auckland in Spring

• Try some artisan goodies at the La Cigale French Farmers’ Market in Parnell
• Check out the native birds on Tiritiri Matangi Island
• See the flower displays in Cornwall Park or Auckland Botanic Gardens
• Take a day trip to the Matakana Coast
• Check out events like the Diwali Festival of Lights

Find out some other great places to visit in spring with our 5 Places to Visit in Spring in New Zealand .

More About Auckland

• 10 Things to Do in Auckland at Night
• 10 Alternative Things To Do in Auckland
• 10 Auckland Must-Dos
• The 50 Best Accommodations in Auckland

That’s it from our guide to the best time to visit Auckland. Get even more tips in our other guide,  When is the Best Time to Visit New Zealand?

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Discover Auckland (Regional tourism website)
• Auckland Council (Local council website)
• Hauraki District Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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48 Hours in Auckland: The Ultimate Itinerary

Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, with a population of more than 1.5 million. It's also a sprawling city, encompassing the Waitakere Ranges in the west, the North Shore in the north, the Hunua Ranges in the east, and Manukau City/Manurewa in the south, as well as several islands in the Hauraki Gulf. In short, there's a lot to see and do here, whatever your tastes and interests.

With just 48 hours in the city, it makes sense to stick to the central city (the CBD) and places with a direct connection from there. It's easy to get around here without a car, either by walking or taking some easy bus rides, and there's a good concentration of accommodation, dining, and sights. Many travelers to New Zealand do like to rent a car , but this isn't such a great idea in Auckland as parking can be challenging, and traffic surprisingly bad.

With two days in Auckland, there's time to try a little bit of (almost) everything, from sweeping views to tasty food, chilled out parks and beautiful beaches, intriguing museums, and a hike up a volcano. Here's the ultimate itinerary for 48 hours in Auckland.

Day 1: Morning

 Boy Anupong/Getty

10 a.m.: Start day one with a visit to the iconic Sky Tower . Wherever you're staying in the city, it'll be hard to miss, as it's the tallest building on the horizon, and just off central Queen Street. The 1,076-foot tall tower was constructed in the mid-late 1990s, and offers excellent views across Auckland and beyond. Visitors can take the super-fast elevator up to two 700-foot-plus viewing decks to get their bearings in Auckland. On a clear day, you'll be able to see about 50 miles.

There are glass sections of the floor so you can look directly down below (if you're not too afraid of heights!) and don't miss the chance to see people attached to bungee chords zooming past the window on the outside! There's even a clock on the wall counting down to when you can expect to see the next person whizzing past. Of course, you can be one of those people whizzing past, if you like. The SkyJump offers the chance to bungee jump off the Sky Tower (although you're suspended on wires, so you don't risk hitting the side of the building on the way down).

There's also a casino on the lower levels of the Sky Tower, as well as restaurants and accommodation, including a cafe at one of the viewing decks. But, we recommend walking a few minutes up Queen Street for lunch, instead.

12 p.m.: Head to the Elliott Stables for lunch, just a couple of blocks away from the Sky Tower. Inside the early 20th-century warehouse building is a vast array of dining options. This is food court eating at its best, as the atmosphere is more like a cozy city street than a cavernous hall. You can choose from fish and chips, burgers, sushi, dumplings, Sri Lankan curry, and much more from the outlets around the side, and then sit at a central table to eat. This is a great dining option if you're traveling with a group of people who all have different tastes or dietary needs. Everyone can get what they want. Be warned though: it gets noisy here when it's busy.

Day 1: Afternoon

 Mark Meredith/Getty

1 p.m.: After lunch, take a walk through central Auckland to the Auckland Domain . It's a bit uphill (this is a city of volcanoes, after all) and will take 30-40 minutes, so if the weather's bad or you're not so active, you can also take a taxi or a bus up to the Domain. But if you can, walking is a good idea as you'll get a good feel for the central city atmosphere.

The Auckland Domain is a large park just east of the center, located on an old volcano. In the summer there are often events and activities in the park, but at any time of year, it's a beautiful place to walk and relax. There's an outdoor sculpture trail, a native forest grove, and the Wintergardens greenhouses that house temperate and tropical plants.

3 p.m.: As well as these natural attractions, the Auckland Domain is home to the Auckland War Memorial Museum . After spending some time in the park, head to the museum, in an early 20th-century neo-Greek building. This is a great place to get an overview of Auckland, and New Zealand, city, from prehistory to pre-colonial, colonial, 20th century, and modern times. There are permanent and temporary exhibits, many of which focus on New Zealand identity-making and Maori and Pasifika history. There's also a great hands-on section for kids.

Day 1: Evening

chameleonseye/Getty

6 p.m.: The Auckland Museum and Domain are conveniently located beside Parnell, one of Auckland's most fashionable dining and shopping districts. If you're hungry after spending some time at the museum, you might want to go straight to dinner. Otherwise, find a bar for some pre-dinner drinks or head back to your hotel for a rest before taking a taxi up to Parnell later in the evening.

A range of dining options are available in Parnell, and many of the restaurants here are ranked some of the best in Auckland. The possibilities include French (Parnell is famous for its French Market at the weekend), Thai, burgers, steak, seafood, Italian, Nepali and Indian, Chinese, Greek, Japanese, Vietnamese, Malay... and much more! It's a good idea to reserve a table at popular restaurants in advance, especially if you're dining at the weekend.

If you want to continue having fun late into the night, there is no shortage of places to drink in Parnell. Find a good wine bar (which won't be hard) to try some famous New Zealand wines .

Day 2: Morning

 Simo Collins - EyeEm/Getty

9 a.m.: Start day two by taking a ferry over to Rangitoto Island . This large, flattish volcano in the Hauraki Gulf can be seen from across Auckland and is 850 feet high and 3.5 miles wide. It's believed to have emerged from the sea around 600 years ago, making it Auckland's youngest volcano.

Ferries to Rangitoto depart from the Downtown Ferry Terminal every 75 minutes and take 25 minutes to reach Rangitoto. The first ferry of the day leaves Auckland at 9:15 a.m. during the week, and at 7:30 a.m. on the weekend.

Short and long walks can be done on Rangitoto Island, but for the sake of this 48-hour itinerary, we recommend taking a shorter walk to the summit and back, which takes about two hours return. Consider it a prelude to one of New Zealand's more challenging hikes , if you're staying longer in the country. It's an easy walk along boardwalks part of the way, passing through pohutukawa tree forest and lava fields. There are great views across the Hauraki Gulf and across to Auckland from the summit. Make sure to bring drinking water, hats, and sunscreen with you, as there are no facilities on the island, and much of the trail is exposed.

One important thing to keep in mind is that Rangitoto Island is pest free, meaning there are no predators or bugs that can affect the native flora and fauna. Check that your shoes are clean before heading to Rangitoto, so you don't inadvertently carry any seeds or other potentially problematic substances over with you.

Day 2: Afternoon

TripSavvy / Maria Ligaya

1:30 p.m.: Some ferries between Rangitoto and the CBD stop at the North Shore neighborhood of Devonport, and this is a great place to go for lunch. You'll have worked up an appetite after your volcano summit.

Devonport is a small historic settlement just north of central Auckland, but because it's separated from the CBD by Auckland Harbour, it has a smaller-town feel. There are lots of antiques and art shops on Victoria Road, and some World War II-era military relics at North Head. There are also many great places to grab lunch with a city view, including classic Kiwi fish and chips, which you could take away and eat on the beach.

3 p.m.: Speaking of beaches, if the weather's good, spend the afternoon relaxing, swimming, or walking on a beach (if it's mid-winter, you might want to opt for the antique shopping mentioned above!) While most of New Zealand's most spectacular beaches are further from Auckland, you can find some surprisingly good strips of sand within the city limits. Devonport has a couple of lovely beaches itself, Devonport Beach and Cheltenham Beach, with golden sands. Alternatively, you could catch the ferry back to the CBD and head to Mission Bay Beach. This is Auckland's most popular city beach, and is just a couple of miles east of the CBD, with great views of Rangitoto.

Day 2: Evening

Didier Marti/Getty

7 p.m.: For your final evening in Auckland, dine at the Viaduct Harbour. Set right on the water, next to the ferry terminals, Viaduct Harbour's beautiful views include many of Auckland's famous yachts (Auckland's nickname is the City of Sails). When choosing where to eat, the seafood and nautical themes here are strong here. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss the chance to try some delicious New Zealand green shell mussels , which are much larger than their North American cousins, but you can't go wrong with any seafood in this part of town.

10 p.m.: The Viaduct Harbour itself is a hot nightlife spot, with some of the most exclusive bars in the city. Dr. Rudi's Rooftop Brewing Co.  is relatively casual and offers craft beers, some brewed on-site, as well as great views. The Viaduct Harbour is also conveniently located just north-west of Queen Street, the CBD's main artery. Along Queen Street and on the streets leading off from it, you can find a vast range of pubs and clubs, including stylish Housebar at Hotel DeBrett , which serves classy cocktails in an Art Deco setting.

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The Best Time to Visit Auckland, New Zealand for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Auckland for ideal weather are

October 1st to May 20th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Auckland Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Auckland Travel Info

Weather in auckland.

Average temperatures in Auckland vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel nice most of the year, excluding some cold weeks in the winter, with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is somewhat temperate — in the 53rd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Auckland, the hottest months are February, January, and then March. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late January and early February where highs are regularly around 76.4°F (24.7°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 61.6°F (16.4°C) at night.

Auckland Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Auckland temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Auckland Perceived Temperature (F)

Auckland perceived temperature (c), average auckland temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Auckland are January, November, and then February. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around late November to early December. For example, on the week of November 26th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in early July with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of July 2nd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Auckland.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Auckland (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Auckland has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is January (67.7% relative humidity), and the most humid month is July (80.6%).

Wind in Auckland is usually moderate . The windiest month is October, followed by November and December. October’s average wind speed of around 11.3 knots (13 MPH or 20.9 KPH) is considered “a moderate breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid October where average top sustained speeds reach 17.9 knots, which is considered a fresh breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Auckland.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to auckland.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for New Zealand; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Auckland, New Zealand is January, followed by June and February. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Auckland in April. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall auckland travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel moderate. Highs range from 75°F (23.9°C) and 60.5°F (15.8°C) with colder temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 5 to 9 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the slowest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for deals.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have cold weather with high temperatures that are brisk. These months see the most precipitation with 10 to 11 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the second busiest season for tourism in Auckland, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly more.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 70.3°F (21.3°C) and 61°F (16.1°C), which will feel comfortable given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 4 to 8 days per month. Tourism is fairly slow during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be lower priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Auckland to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 76.4°F (24.7°C) and 71°F (21.7°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 4 to 6 times per month. These times of year are the busiest with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › New Zealand › Auckland, New Zealand

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Home » New Zealand Travel Blog » How long is the flight to New Zealand from the USA?

How long is the flight to New Zealand from the USA?

• 29 Jun 2021
• Before you visit NZ , Flights to New Zealand , NZ Travel Info

This handy guide answers the question “How long is the flight to New Zealand from the USA?”, with flight times to New Zealand from all major North American airports.

How long is the flight to New Zealand?

Travelling from the USA to New Zealand is a relatively straightforward journey. The flight time from Los Angeles and San Francisco airports to Auckland, our primary international gateway, is slightly over 13 hours. These flights are both non-stop and direct, minimising any unnecessary hassle. Moreover, there are convenient direct flights available from other US cities: Honolulu (9 hours), Houston (just under 15 hours), Dallas-Fort Worth (15 hours), and New York (18 hours).

Canadians can either fly directly to Auckland from Vancouver on Air New Zealand or Air Canada, with a flight time of 14 hours, or take a connecting flight from their local airport to San Francisco or Los Angeles before the final 13-hour leg of their journey to Auckland, New Zealand.

An added benefit of this route is that departures from the West Coast typically occur in the evening. This provides a delightful beginning to your vacation – you can ease into it with a leisurely evening, enjoy a restful night’s sleep, and awaken refreshed, conveniently close to New Zealand and the start of your exciting adventure.

Flight times to New Zealand from major North American cities

Is it longer to fly from the usa to new zealand or to europe or asia.

Interestingly for travellers from North America, some flights to European destinations have similar flight times to New Zealand. Compare the flight times below.

And just consider what is at the end of it. The trip of a lifetime!

Don’t forget New Zealand is one of the first places on earth to see the sun each day – an excellent point to brag about to your whanau (faa-no: Maori for wider family including friends).

Compare flight times from the USA to New Zealand and Europe

Compare flight times from the usa to new zealand and asia, finding a flight is the first step to visiting new zealand.

One of the first things you need to know is how to get here, and you probably think that getting to New Zealand requires a long flight? The good news is that it may not take as long as you think, and airlines (especially our national carrier Air New Zealand) are working really hard to make your flight super comfortable and fun.

You may think it’s a long way to New Zealand, and we know it’s longer than flying inside North America, but when you compare it to other main holiday spots around, flying to New Zealand stacks up pretty well. Which is longer, the flight to New Zealand or the flights to Paris, London, Tokyo, Shanghai or Bangkok? That’s all here too.

Lots of people make the flight from the North America for our small group tours every year and they all tell us is that it’s definitely worth it, one sleep on a plane and you’re in New Zealand!

When you look at a world map, you’ll see that New Zealand is isolated. It is surrounded by over 2,500 kilometres (1500 miles) of ocean to the nearest land mass and that’s just in one direction towards Australia.

Fortunately, New Zealand is very well-connected for folks in USA and Canada.

Why fly all the way to New Zealand?

To visit places like this, milford sound.

What to expect when you arrive in New Zealand?

When you arrive in New Zealand there will be a few things you notice straight away:

• Our weather will be different to yours at home. Our seasons are the opposite from the northern hemisphere, so if you left in winter it will be summer here (which you’ll love). For more info, read about our weather and climate here so that you pack the right gear (clothing).
• The pace of life is a bit slower here. There is no hurry; we will have time to get to know you well.
• Everyone is friendly and smiling at you, even in an airport. Don’t worry it’s normal, you’re in New Zealand now!

Why does everyone love New Zealand so much?

Sure, it’s a beautiful country, everyone knows that. But what you’ll notice right away is something different, a connection with people and a real sense of caring.

It’s hard to explain, you’ll just have to come down and find out for yourself. We have a wonderful country and great people, and we want to show you all our favourite spots. We can’t say more than that!

We hope you’ve found this travel article helpful for your trip.

We’re MoaTrek, and we’ve been running small group tours here in New Zealand since the early 1970s, and we love nothing more than sharing all our favourite spots with visitors.

To start the ball rolling on your “Dream Trip to New Zealand” drop us a line, we’d love to chat.

Read More New Zealand Travel Articles

When is the best time to visit New Zealand?

How to get to New Zealand?

New Zealand Travel Tips & Common Questions

What’s the best way to travel around New Zealand?

North America to New Zealand Flight Route Map

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Watch: What Auckland Airport's new $3.9b terminal looks like

Auckland Airport has released details of its integrated domestic terminal it says is well underway as airlines call on it to associated costs.

The new domestic jet terminal is expected to cost $2.2 billion overall, with a further $1.7 billion to cover the cost of integrating domestic and international travel – a spend that that it says is in line with other comparable airport upgrades around the world.

It will mean an end to a walk or bus ride between the terminals, as well as ease congestion, and there will be 70 per cent more baggage reclaim space.

The airport says airlines’ claims that in the long term, landing fees will increase by more than four times what they are now to pay for it are wrong.

Today it revealed details of the interior of the terminal which it says will ease congestion for aircraft and could drive down prices.

The domestic terminal - which is being built on the eastern end of the international one - should be open in 2028-29 and the company promises it will transform the experience of in and from from Auckland and connecting with international flights.

The company has been in a bitter battle with airlines over the building’s impact on aeronautical fees but says it is not a ‘’gold plated’' structure and designers have looked to cut costs of all aspects of the building that will replace its near-60-year-old existing building.

Chief customer officer Scott Tasker said the airport had consulted with the airport over 20 concept designs and in 2019 the airlines supported the plans. Although delayed by the pandemic, enabling work has been well underway and the building of the terminal itself would start later this year.

‘‘Like other major airports, we have fulfilled our obligations extensively to consult with the airlines around the infrastructure development and the price. Ultimately, what consumers tell us is they want to have a better travel experience at Auckland Airport.’'

With detailed design near completion, the new terminal will handle up to 20,000 passengers a day and increase customer processing, with a 44 per cent increase in processing capacity.

Travellers will have a five-minute indoor walk between domestic jet and international travel, meaning an end to walking the current outdoor “green line” walk between terminals or taking the inter-terminal transfer bus service.

Checked luggage will be tracked in real-time in an individual carrier system (ICS) for baggage handling.

For travellers starting their journey in Auckland, check-in kiosks, automatic bag drops, and all-day check-in means the end to waiting in line at check-in counters.

“All our check-ins for both domestic jet and international passengers will be in the same place, making it much easier for travellers,” said Tasker.

Airlines have accused the airport of building a grandiose monument but Tasker said this is not fair as the company was using materials and designs to cut costs while ensuring it was a sustainable, durable structure. A ‘‘cost-effective’' mix of durable carpeted and rubber flooring was being used inside and tray profile steel on the exterior.

When complete the new domestic terminal will have in total 12 jet aircraft gates capable of handling Code C aircraft, such as an Airbus A321, with six gates able to take widebody Code E aircraft (with 300 or more seats) by combining two narrowbody aircraft stands.

That flexibility creates capacity to manage demand surges, for example adding flights for an All Blacks game in Dunedin, and adds a 26 per cent uplift in seat capacity overall.

The airfield around the terminal will be upgraded with electric ground power units for aircraft to plug in at gate to reduce fuel burn and a new fuel system to support sustainable aviation fuel.

Alongside regular airport facilities, there will be dedicated faith spaces, a low-sensory room, baby change facilities in both the male and female bathrooms, family-specific facilities, and gender-neutral bathrooms.

Check-in kiosks and automatic bag drops, capable of future upgrades to biometric technology, to speed up check-in process

In line with IATA best practice: queue wait times of four minutes or less for self-check-in and to drop a bag, less than 7.5 minutes for security, adequate seating at boarding gates, timely baggage arrival with less than 15 minutes from first bag to last bag on belt

Device charging points in 50 per cent of seats in pre-departure spaces.

Two baggage reclaims with 180m of belt space – a 70 per cent increase on the current domestic terminal

Airlines pass on airport charges to passengers and they have said new fees in the current five years and beyond could make travel unaffordable. Air New Zealand has estimated airport fees for domestic passengers could reach $46 a passenger within the next 10 years.

Tasker said this is wrong.

“That is absolutely wrong. Whilst we haven’t consulted with the airlines on our prices beyond 2027 and it is a complex process with a lot of inputs. The prices will be approximately half (the $46) we estimate during that period between 2027 and 2032.”

Airports operate under a regulated, user-pays system in which airlines pay to use the core infrastructure – runway, taxiways, and terminal areas they need to operate their business.

Charges are set every five years after consultation with airlines and are reviewed by the Commerce Commission. Although they consult, airports can set the prices as they see fit and airlines are pushing for a review of the regulations covering them and calling for a commercial arbitrator to intervene when there are disagreements.

The airport says landing charges make up less than five per cent of an airfare.

Auckland Airport says its airline domestic jet charges are $10.25 per passenger, moving to $15.45 by 2027 – a similar cost to what other major New Zealand airports charge now.

Grant Bradley has been working at the Herald since 1993. He is the Business Herald’s deputy editor and covers aviation and tourism.

This article was originally published on the NZ Herald here.

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Sneak peek inside Auckland Airport's controversial domestic terminal upgrade

A uckland Airport has revealed a first look inside its planned new domestic jet terminal as part of a multi-billion dollar upgrade.

The current domestic terminal first opened in 1966, but has run out of capacity.

Auckland Airport's Chief Customer Officer, Scott Tasker, described the design of the new terminal as "simple" and "cost-efficient" after it was sharply criticised by airlines .

"It will allow around 26 percent more gate capacity and 44 percent more processing of travellers through security checkpoints," he said.

"Airlines will be able to add more flights during peak periods and it will also be an opportunity for new competitors to enter the market".

For travellers starting their journey in Auckland, check-in kiosks, automatic bag drops, and all-day check-in should mean the end of waiting in long check-in queues.

Checked luggage will be tracked in real time in a modern individual carrier system (ICS) for baggage handling.

Device charging points will be available in 50 percent of seats in pre-departure areas and there will be a focus on bathroom facilities for families. There will also be a Changing Places bathroom for travellers with profound disabilities, and a low sensory space for travellers seeking a quiet setting.

Crucially, the upgrade would mean a five-minute indoor walk between the domestic and international terminals, meaning no more walking the current infamous outdoor 'green line' walk between terminals or taking the inter-terminal transfer bus.

The upgrade is set to cost $2.2 billion for new domestic terminal overall and $1.7 billion for additional integration costs.

Tasker said while airport terminals are expensive, this terminal benchmarks well off other international terminals of a similar size.

But the project hasn't been without controversy. Earlier this year  Air New Zealand sought an urgent review  into what it called Auckland Airport's "overspending".

Auckland Airport is gradually increasing the amount it charges airlines to land. Initially, the increases will be $6.75 per passenger but will soon rise to $10.25 per passenger - and then eventually to $15.45 by 2027.  

Airlines will then pass that cost on to passengers and Air NZ chief executive Greg Foran said that's "about a $40 increase per passenger".  

Auckland Airport hit back at those claims today.

"If we look forward to the next pricing period from 2027 to 2032, whilst we haven't consulted with airlines on those prices there has been some speculation travellers could pay up to $46 per journey to use Auckland Airport," Tasker said.

"That is absolutely wrong. We estimate travellers will be paying half that once the new terminal opens."

It's expected the project will be finished by 2029.

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• Auckland Airport's new terminal bridges domestic, international services

Auckland Airport's new terminal will bring domestic and international transfers, check-ins and bag drops under one roof.

But it will not be without disruption for up to 20 million travellers a year, until the building is ready in 2029.

The almost $4 billion project will replace the airport's ageing domestic terminal, which originally opened in 1966.

Auckland Airport chief customer officer Scott Tasker. Photo: RNZ / Felix Walton

"This won't be a gold-plated terminal," Auckland Airport chief customer officer Scott Tasker said, but it would focus on the basics.

The new building would bridge the domestic and international terminals, meaning travellers would be able to transfer from domestic to international services without leaving the airport.

International and domestic customers will also be able to check in at the same place with new kiosks and automatic bag drops.

"It will offer better navigation for travellers, more seating areas and places to charge your phone, good bathroom facilities, and more capacity for airlines to add more flights during peak periods," Tasker said.

But he warned of disruption for the next five years while work was under way.

"It of course does mean disruption for the 18 to 20 million travellers that will be departing and arriving from Auckland Airport each year," he said.

"We're working really hard to ensure that we minimise that disruption as well as possible, and we do ask customers to please bear with us. Ultimately the end product will be worth the wait."

The new terminal is expected to open in 2029. Photo: RNZ / Felix Walton

He said Auckland Airport needed a "fit-for-purpose, efficient domestic terminal".

The terminal cost $2.2b, and the associated works including the airfield upgrades are about $1.7b.

"Airport terminals are expensive, but this terminal benchmarks very well with other international examples of a similar size."

Tasker said domestic flight charges would increase from $10.25 per passenger to $15.45 by 2027.

It was similar to what other major New Zealand airports charged, he said.

Storm resilience, baggage system

Knee-high flood waters filled Auckland Airport's domestic terminal during last year's storms, causing serious damage.

"We've made some substantial stormwater upgrades in the north of the precinct," programme director Tim McKenzie said.

"We're very cognizant of the effects of weather, given the impacts on Auckland Airport in early 2023 so there are some major upgrades."

Auckland Airport new terminal project director Isaac Taylor. Photo: RNZ / Felix Walton

But the terminal's best features would be hidden from view, project director Isaac Taylor said.

"All the really cool stuff is behind closed doors, the [new] baggage system is a massive step change in terms of efficiency with passenger baggage and loading onto the aircraft."

The new terminal would use an "individual carrier system", which moved faster and jammed less often than a typical conveyor belt.

A pain point for the current terminal was its low capacity, programme director Tim McKenzie said.

He said it could only service about 15,000 passengers each day, but the new terminal would bring that number up to about 20,000.

"This is an uplift [of] 26 percent passengers, and it also provides important dwell space and processing space of I think about 44 percent."

Construction work on the new terminal will begin later in 2024.

• Auckland Region

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An end to Oakland and Auckland airport mixups?

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An airport in the California city of Oakland is proposing a name change that would help stop it being confused with a city 10,000 km away in the South Pacific.

An end to Oakland and Auckland airport mixups? Back to video

The air hub in San Francisco Bay is regularly confused with a similar-sounding terminal in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. So muddled was Michael Lewis in 1985 that he made the news pages of the Los Angeles Times. “Oakland man mistakenly adds 12,000 miles (19,312 kms), to journey,” the paper reported.

Now the Port of Oakland authority, which operates the city’s airport, has proposed a name change that will end decades of costly mix-ups. If the plan is approved, the Metropolitan Oakland International Airport would become San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. Lawmakers said the move will not only clear up confusion, it will drive profits for Bay Area businesses.

“Considering a name modification to highlight our location within the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area could offer several benefits,” said Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao.

Craig Simon, a spokesman for the airport, said a name change will help it compete for new destinations, “which will benefit all travellers.” It’s expected to be especially helpful to Asian tourists, as both Oakland and Auckland are rendered almost the same in simplified Chinese characters, the New Zealand Herald noted.

But San Francisco has filed a lawsuit to stop the proposed change, arguing it’s a “trademark infringement” — and too similar to its own airport’s name. City Attorney David Chiu, said: “Those two names are clearly similar and very likely to cause confusion and thus makes for a clear infringement case.”

The IATA airport code OAK would stay the same if the name change is approved. A final vote is set for May.

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