Auckland Frequently Asked Questions
We've put together a list of frequently asked questions to help address common questions about visiting Auckland. We also have 'Auckland Useful Info and 'Auckland Useful Numbers' sections for more details.
What’s the best time to visit?
Auckland has a sub-tropical climate with warm humid summer months and cooler, wetter winter months. If you prefer the hotter climate, the best time to visit is during the summer months of December, January and February. Have a look at our Auckland Weather Page for more details.
How do I get there?
Auckland International Airport is 21km from the city centre. Cruise ships dock right in downtown Auckland, while various bus services operate to and from the city from destinations around the country. Refer to our Auckland Driving Distances for driving times to Auckland from around the North Island. The Overlander train route, between Auckland and Wellington, is a popular scenic rail journey. You can ride the whole line in 12 hours, or hop on and off at your leisure. See more details in our Auckland Trains Guide.
How do I get from Auckland Airport into the town centre?
The Airport Shuttle is a shared passenger mini-bus service called ‘Super Shuttle’. It costs $33 per person or $38 for two persons. The Airbus Express costs $16 per person, one way, and $26 for a return fare to the city centre. Taxis cost between $70 and $80 into the centre.
What ferries are available to visit Auckland’s Islands?
There are numerous Auckland ferries, run by Fullers, that operate regular services to many of Auckland’s Islands including Waiheke, Great Barrier and Rangitoto. Regular ferry services also operate to Half Moon Bay and Devonport. Auckland ferry terminal is located on Quay Street. Refer to our Auckland Ferries Guide for more details.
Where can I Park in Auckland?
Auckland Transport and a few private operators manage the parking around Auckland. In the CBD it costs between $5 and $7 an hour while further out, the cost can come down to $2 an hour. Refer to our Auckland Parking Guide for details on where to find car parks and pricing.
Please note: In New Zealand, you can only park in the direction of traffic flow on your side of the road. You can be fined or towed away for parking on the opposite side of the street that you are driving along (unless it’s a one way street).
Where's the main hospital in Auckland?
Auckland City Hospital is the main hospital and largest in New Zealand. The hospital is located on 2 Park Road, Grafton. +64 9 367 0000.
What are the numbers to dial in case of an emergency?
- Police, Fire and Ambulance = 111
- AA Emergency Road Service = 0800 500 222
- You can also refer to our ‘Useful Numbers’ list.
Where can I change my money?
You can cash in your traveller cheques, purchase currency and make international payment transfers in the major banks and bureaux de change. Refer to our Bureau de Change guide to see a selection of locations.
What’s the currency?
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is divided into 100 cents. There’s no restriction on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought in or taken out of New Zealand. However, more than $10,000 must be declared at customs. Denominations: Coins: 10c – 20c – 50c. Notes: $1 - $2 - $5 - $10 - $20 - $50 - $100
What’s the Time Zone?
Auckland is 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and two hours ahead of Sydney. The clocks are put forward one hour for daylight saving from October to March.
What clothing should I bring?
Auckland is a sub-tropical climate with warm, humid summers and damp winters. During the summer months of January and February, the average temperature is 23C (74F). The winter months of June, July and August reaches a maximum temperature of 14C (57F). The golden rule is to carry layers of clothing with you and an umbrella!
What are the electrical specifications?
The electrical current is 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels provide 110 volt AC sockets for electrical razors. Power outlets accept flat, 2 or 3 pin plugs.
Can you smoke in any bars or restaurants?
New Zealand implemented a smoke free bar and restaurant policy back in December 2004. However, many places provide outdoor smoking zones.
If you have a question that is not answered on this page, send us your question and we'll post the answer on here to help fellow travellers. Simply email us with your question.
