Main Airports in New Zealand You Need to Know

Ever landed at an airport with views so stunning you forgot to check your phone? New Zealand’s airports offer exactly that kind of arrival experience. 

From Auckland’s international gateway where snow-capped mountains greet you on clear days to Queenstown’s approach between alpine peaks, airports in New Zealand are more than transit points — they’re your first taste of the country’s natural beauty.

In this guide, we cover the top airports in New Zealand, their facilities, transportation options, and everything you need to know for a smooth travel experience.

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code
Auckland Airport	Domestic & International	AKL
Christchurch Airport	Domestic & International	CHC
Wellington Airport	Domestic & International	WLG
Queenstown Airport	Domestic & International	ZQN
Dunedin Airport	Domestic & Limited International	DUD
Nelson Airport	Domestic	NSN
Hawke’s Bay Airport	Domestic	NPE
Palmerston North Airport	Domestic	PMR
Tauranga Airport	Domestic	TRG
New Plymouth Airport	Domestic	NPL

1. Auckland Airport (AKL) – New Zealand’s Primary International Gateway

Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s busiest international gateway, handling approximately 21 million passengers annually. As the premier facility among airports in New Zealand, it serves as the main hub for Air New Zealand and connects to over 26 domestic and 46 international destinations.

Address: Ray Emery Drive, Māngere, Auckland 2022, New Zealand

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bJbB27cWcJsVcifWA

Airport Code: AKL

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +6492750789

Distance from City Center: 26.4 km from Auckland city

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Qantas, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and numerous other international carriers operate from this premier gateway among airports in New Zealand.

Terminals: Two terminals serve passengers – the International Terminal and the Domestic Terminal (connected by a free shuttle bus).

Services & Amenities:

• Free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout both terminals
• Extensive duty-free shopping and diverse dining options
• Premium lounges including Air New Zealand Koru Lounge, Emirates Lounge, and Strata Lounge
• Currency exchange services and ATMs 
• Prayer rooms and accessibility features for travelers with special needs
• Children’s play areas and parent rooms
• Luggage storage and wrapping services

Nearby Attractions:

• Auckland CBD: Explore iconic landmarks like Sky Tower, vibrant Viaduct Harbour, and Queen Street shopping district.
• Mount Eden (Maungawhau): Climb this volcanic cone for spectacular 360-degree panoramic views of Auckland city and its harbors.
• Mission Bay: Relax at this popular beach area featuring a promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and recreational activities.
• One Tree Hill (Maungakiekie): Visit this significant cultural site with a historic obelisk, offering beautiful city views and expansive parklands.

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2. Christchurch Airport (CHC) – South Island’s Main Aviation Hub

Christchurch Airport ranks as the second busiest among the airports in New Zealand, serving approximately 7 million passengers annually. Operating since 1940, this key New Zealand airport serves as the main gateway to the South Island.

Address: 30 Durey Road, Harewood, Christchurch 8053, New Zealand

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3qZFToux9HNeyhu19

Airport Code: CHC

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +6433537777

Distance from City Center: 10.7 km from Christchurch city

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Qantas, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, China Southern, and various other domestic and international carriers operate from this major hub among airports in New Zealand.

Terminals: One integrated terminal serves both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Wide range of retail shops and dining options
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge and Manaia Lounge
• Currency exchange and ATMs
• Baggage services and storage facilities
• Prayer rooms and accessible facilities
• Children’s play areas and parent rooms
• Rental car services and shuttle buses

Nearby Attractions:

• Christchurch Botanic Gardens: Wander through 21 hectares of stunning gardens featuring exotic and native plants, with beautiful Avon River frontage.
• Hagley Park: Enjoy recreational activities in New Zealand’s largest urban park, with sports fields, walking paths, and seasonal events.
• Canterbury Museum: Discover natural and human history exhibits showcasing the region’s heritage and Antarctic exploration connections.
• International Antarctic Centre: Experience interactive polar exhibits including penguin encounters and a simulated Antarctic storm.

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3. Wellington Airport (WLG) – New Zealand’s Capital City Gateway

Wellington Airport serves as the gateway to New Zealand’s capital city. This significant facility among the top airports in New Zealand handles approximately 5.5 million passengers annually and features “The Rock” terminal, an award-winning architectural design.

Address: Stewart Duff Drive, Rongotai, Wellington 6022, New Zealand

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/cbC4W2XiEsNh6RjW7

Airport Code: WLG

Category: Operates both domestic and international flights

Phone: +6443855100

Distance from City Center: 8 km away from Wellington City

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and Fiji Airways.

Terminals: One integrated terminal serves both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• A range of dining options, including local food and beverage outlets
• Retail shopping, including New Zealand souvenirs
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Currency exchange services and ATMs
• Car rental desks and shuttle services
• Baggage storage and wrapping services
• Parent rooms and accessible facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Te Papa Tongarewa: Explore New Zealand’s innovative national museum featuring interactive exhibits on culture, art, and natural history.
• Wellington Cable Car: Ride this historic funicular railway from Lambton Quay to Kelburn for spectacular harbor and city views.
• Mount Victoria Lookout: Enjoy panoramic views of Wellington city, harbor, and surrounding hills from this accessible viewpoint.
• Cuba Street: Experience Wellington’s bohemian heart with eclectic shops, street performances, and diverse dining options.

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4. Queenstown Airport (ZQN) – Gateway to the Southern Alps

Queenstown Airport serves as the gateway to New Zealand’s adventure capital. As a vital component in the network of airports in New Zealand, it handles approximately 2 million passengers annually and offers one of the world’s most scenic approaches.

Address: Sir Henry Wigley Drive, Frankton, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WK6ZJzp7kfCJQ1MF8

Airport Code: ZQN

Category: Operates domestic and international flights

Phone: +6434509031

Distance from City Center: 8 km away from Queenstown City

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia operate from this scenic hub among airports in New Zealand, with direct flights to Australian cities and domestic connections.

Terminals: One integrated terminal serves both domestic and international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Café and dining options with local food and beverages
• Retail shopping including adventure gear and souvenirs
• Car rental desks from major providers
• ATMs and currency exchange services
• Airport shuttles and taxi services
• Baggage services

Nearby Attractions:

• The Remarkables: Ski in winter or hike in summer on this dramatic mountain range with spectacular alpine scenery.
• Lake Wakatipu: Enjoy scenic cruises, water activities, or simply admire the stunning blue waters surrounded by mountains.
• Skyline Gondola: Take the cable car up Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, luge rides, and mountain biking tracks.
• Arrowtown: Step back in time in this charming historic gold mining town with preserved 19th-century buildings and a Chinese settlement.

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5. Dunedin Airport (DUD) – Otago Region’s Primary Airport

Dunedin Airport serves as the main aviation gateway to southern New Zealand. This important facility among airports in New Zealand handles approximately 1 million passengers annually and provides crucial connections to the historic city of Dunedin.

Address: 25 Miller Road, Momona 9073, New Zealand

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7Sw9MJD2LDoq2sVq6

Airport Code: DUD

Category: Primarily domestic with limited international flights

Phone: +6434862879

Distance from City Center: 28 km from Dunedin CBD

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and limited international charters operate from this regional airport in New Zealand’s southern region.

Terminals: One terminal serves both domestic and limited international flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Café and bar with local food and beverages
• Retail shop with souvenirs and travel essentials
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Car rental desks and taxi services
• ATMs and currency exchange
• Baggage services and storage facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Larnach Castle: Visit New Zealand’s only castle featuring historic architecture, antique-filled rooms, and award-winning gardens.
• Otago Peninsula: Observe rare wildlife including yellow-eyed penguins, royal albatross colony, and sea lions in their natural habitat.
• Baldwin Street: Challenge yourself on the world’s steepest residential street with a 35% gradient.
• Dunedin Railway Station: Admire the ornate Edwardian baroque architecture of this iconic building known as the “Gingerbread House.”

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6. Nelson Airport (NSN) – Top Regional Airport

Nelson Airport serves as New Zealand’s busiest regional airport. This efficient facility among regional airports in New Zealand handles approximately 1 million passengers annually and features an award-winning timber terminal building opened in 2019.

Address: Trent Drive, Nelson Airport, Nelson 7011, New Zealand
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/T1pfnYdAmUCW5c8G6
Airport Code: NSN
Category: Domestic flights
Phone: +6435473199
Distance from City Center: 24 km away from Nelson City

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Sounds Air, and Originair operate domestic services from this important regional hub among airports in New Zealand.

Terminals: One modern terminal serves all flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Café with local food and beverages
• Retail options, including local products
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Car rental desks and shuttle services
• Baggage services
• Accessible facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Abel Tasman National Park: Explore golden beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coastal forest on New Zealand’s most popular Great Walk.
• Nelson Saturday Market: Browse New Zealand’s oldest market featuring local arts, crafts, fresh produce, and street food.
• WOW Museum: Discover the World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum featuring extraordinary garment designs and vintage vehicles.
• Tahunanui Beach: Relax at this popular family-friendly beach with safe swimming areas, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.

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7. Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE) – Napier’s Regional Hub

Hawke’s Bay Airport serves the twin cities of Napier and Hastings. This growing facility among airports in New Zealand handles more than 650,000 passengers annually and features a recently expanded terminal with unique cultural design elements.

Address: 111 Main North Road, Napier 4110, New Zealand
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qF22aotPaycdHZcm8
Airport Code: NPE
Category: Domestic flights
Phone: +6468340742
Distance from City Center: 8.2 km away from Napier City

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Sounds Air connect this regional airport to major New Zealand cities.

Terminals: One terminal serves all domestic flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Café with local Hawke’s Bay food and beverages
• Car rental desks and taxi services
• ATM services
• Baggage facilities
• Accessible services and facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Art Deco Napier: Tour the world-famous Art Deco architecture rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake, with guided walks available.
• Cape Kidnappers: Visit one of the world’s largest mainland gannet colonies situated on dramatic cliffs with breathtaking ocean views.
• Hawke’s Bay Wine Region: Sample award-winning wines at over 70 wineries in New Zealand’s oldest and second-largest wine region.
• Te Mata Peak: Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Hawke’s Bay from this 399m summit accessible by walking trails or road.

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8. Palmerston North Airport (PMR) – Manawatu Region’s Gateway

Palmerston North Airport serves as a vital link for New Zealand’s lower North Island. This efficient facility among the airports in New Zealand handles approximately 600,000 passengers annually with connections to major centers.

Address: Airport Drive, Milson, Palmerston North 4442, New Zealand
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yuSKnVhhMCURKTzs9
Airport Code: PMR
Category: Domestic flights
Phone: +6463514415
Distance from City Center: 5.5 km away from Palmerston North

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand and Originair provide services from this regional New Zealand airport.

Terminals: One terminal serves all domestic flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Café and bar offering refreshments
• Car rental desks from major providers
• Taxi services
• Meeting rooms and business facilities
• Baggage services
• Accessible facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Te Manawa: Explore this museum complex showcasing art, science, and local history through interactive and engaging exhibits.
• Victoria Esplanade: Wander through beautiful rose gardens, native bush, and bird aviaries in this historic 26-hectare park.
• New Zealand Rugby Museum: Discover the world’s first rugby museum featuring historic memorabilia and interactive displays.
• Manawatu Gorge: Hike scenic trails through ancient native forest with spectacular views of the river and gorge below.

9. Tauranga Airport (TRG) – Bay of Plenty Regional Hub

Tauranga Airport serves as the gateway to the Bay of Plenty region. This growing facility among airports in New Zealand handles approximately 550,000 passengers annually and provides crucial connections to this popular coastal area.

Address: 73 Jean Batten Drive, Mount Maunganui 3116, New Zealand
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/p8Z6L62W3aHiNL8o6
Airport Code: TRG
Category: Domestic flights
Phone: +6475753666
Distance from City Center: 6.1 km from Tauranga CBD

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand and other regional carriers provide domestic services from this New Zealand airport.

Terminals: One terminal serves all domestic flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Café with refreshments
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Car rental desks
• Taxi and shuttle services
• Baggage services
• Accessible facilities

Nearby Attractions:

• Mount Maunganui: Climb this iconic volcanic cone for panoramic views or relax on the beautiful ocean beach below.
• Mauao Base Track: Enjoy a walking track around the base of Mount Maunganui with stunning coastal views.
• McLaren Falls Park: Explore 190 hectares of parkland featuring waterfalls, lake activities, and glow worms after dark.
• Tauranga Harbour: Take part in water activities, dolphin watching cruises, or dine at waterfront restaurants and cafés.

10. New Plymouth Airport (NPL) – Taranaki Region’s Gateway

New Plymouth Airport serves as the gateway to the Taranaki region. This modernized facility among airports in New Zealand handles approximately 450,000 passengers annually and features a stunning new terminal opened in 2020 with cultural design elements.

Address: 192 Airport Drive, New Plymouth Airport 4373, New Zealand
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Vqdm3CcJ8LMoUB5s5
Airport Code: NPL
Category: Domestic flights
Phone: +6467596594
Distance from City Center: 11.3 km away from New Plymouth City

Operating Airlines: Air New Zealand and Originair provide domestic connections from this regional New Zealand airport.

Terminals: One modern terminal serves all flights.

Services & Amenities:

• Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
• Airspresso café with local food and beverages
• Air New Zealand Koru Lounge
• Car rental desks
• Taxi services
• Baggage services
• Cultural design elements celebrating local Māori heritage

Nearby Attractions:

• Mount Taranaki: Marvel at or hike this perfectly cone-shaped volcano resembling Japan’s Mount Fuji with numerous walking tracks.
• Pukekura Park: Stroll through one of New Zealand’s premier botanical gardens featuring a diverse range of native and exotic plants.
• Coastal Walkway: Experience the award-winning 12.7km path along the Tasman Sea coastline with views of Mount Taranaki.
• Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre: Visit New Zealand’s contemporary art museum housed in a stunning mirrored building.

Top 5 Places You Must Visit in New Zealand

New Zealand’s landscapes transform ordinary vacations into lifetime memories. Misty fjords, golden beaches, and volcanic wonders await beyond the tourist brochures. These destinations showcase the raw natural beauty that makes this country special.

Place	Location	Highlights
Milford Sound	Fiordland, South Island	Dramatic fjord, waterfalls, wildlife cruises
Queenstown	Otago, South Island	Adventure activities, alpine scenery, and wineries
Rotorua	Bay of Plenty, North Island	Geothermal wonders, Māori culture, adventure
Abel Tasman National Park	Nelson, South Island	Golden beaches, clear waters, and coastal hiking
Auckland	North Island	Harbors, volcanoes, urban culture, and island day trips

Milford Sound, Fiordland (South Island)

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions. This stunning fiord features dramatic cliff faces rising from dark waters, with waterfalls cascading down sheer rock walls.

Visitors can enjoy scenic cruises to spot wildlife, including seals, penguins, and dolphins. The Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offers multi-day hiking opportunities. 

Best For: Nature photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and hikers.

Queenstown, Otago (South Island)

Queenstown is New Zealand’s adventure capital, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Visitors can enjoy world-class skiing in winter, bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving for thrill-seekers, and scenic gondola rides for panoramic views.

The surrounding Central Otago wine region offers excellent winery tours and tastings.

Best For: Adventure seekers, skiers, and food and wine enthusiasts.

Rotorua, Bay of Plenty (North Island)

Rotorua is known for its geothermal wonders and Māori cultural experiences. Visitors can explore bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and colorful thermal pools at attractions like Wai-O-Tapu and Te Puia.

The city offers authentic Māori cultural performances and traditional hāngī feasts. Adventure activities include mountain biking, zorbing, and zip lines. 

Best For: Cultural explorers and nature enthusiasts.

Abel Tasman National Park (South Island)

Abel Tasman National Park features golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush coastal forest. Visitors can enjoy kayaking along the coastline to discover hidden coves and marine wildlife, hiking the Abel Tasman Coast Track, and taking boat tours with opportunities to see seals and dolphins.

Best For: Beach lovers, kayakers, and hikers.

Auckland (North Island)

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, built around two harbors and dotted with volcanic cones. Visitors can enjoy the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, harbor cruises and sailing experiences, and day trips to nearby islands like Waiheke for wineries and beaches.

The city offers excellent shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. 

Best For: Urban explorers, food lovers, and island hoppers.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near major airports in New Zealand?

Major airports in New Zealand offer various lodging options, from budget to luxury. Auckland Airport features several on-site hotels like Novotel and ibis, while Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown provide numerous nearby accommodations with convenient shuttle services to these top airports in New Zealand.

What are some of the facilities at New Zealand airports?

New Zealand airport facilities include free Wi-Fi, diverse dining options, duty-free shopping, currency exchange, prayer rooms, parent rooms, and premium lounges. They also provide luggage storage, car rentals, and shuttle services for travelers’ convenience.

How does SmartGate work at New Zealand airports?

SmartGate at airports in New Zealand is an automated border processing system using facial recognition technology. Eligible travelers with ePassports from New Zealand, Australia, UK, USA, Canada, and several other countries can self-process through immigration, significantly reducing wait times.

What are the transportation options available from airports in New Zealand?

Airport transportation in New Zealand includes airport shuttles, taxis, rideshare services, and public buses at all major airports. Auckland offers an AirportLink bus, Wellington has direct bus connections, and Christchurch features dedicated bus services connecting to the top airports in New Zealand.

How long does a New Zealand tourist visa last?

New Zealand tourist visas typically last 3-9 months, depending on the visa type. Most travelers visiting airports in New Zealand use the NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) which allows stays of up to 3 months for eligible countries. Traditional visitor visas allow stays of up to 9 months.

What items cannot be brought into New Zealand?

New Zealand enforces strict biosecurity laws at all airports in New Zealand. Prohibited items include fresh produce, meat products, honey, seeds, plants, untreated wooden items, and certain animal products. All food items, plant material, and outdoor equipment must be declared upon arrival.

How much is 1NZD in USD?

1 New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is approximately $0.62 United States Dollars (USD) based on the current mid-market exchange rate.

Which are the nearest airports to popular New Zealand destinations?

The main airports in New Zealand serving popular destinations include Auckland Airport (AKL) for Bay of Islands and the Coromandel, Queenstown Airport (ZQN) for Milford Sound and Wanaka, Wellington Airport (WLG) for wine regions, and Christchurch Airport (CHC) for Canterbury and Mount Cook.

What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside a New Zealand airport?

For lost items at airports in New Zealand, contact the airport’s lost property office immediately. Items lost on aircraft require contacting the airline directly.