Airports

New Zealand’s main gateway and biggest airport is Auckland Airport in the north of the North Island. Wellington Airport and Christchurch Airport also offer international flights, while Hamilton, Palmerston North and Rotorua in the North Island and Queenstown and Dunedin in the South Island offer international services to Australia only.

From Kaitaia in Northland to Stewart Island in the very south you’ll find 29 domestic New Zealand airports (excluding international airports) and there are several small airfields catering for flight-seeing and skydiving adventures scattered the length of the country.

Departure Tax

Departure Tax is not included in airfares. All adult passengers (twelve years and over) leaving New Zealand must pay a tax of around NZ$25, payable in cash or by credit card at the airport. Auckland and Christchurch Airports are exempt from this – the departure tax for flights leaving from here is already included in your ticket. Regional New Zealand airports may charge a small domestic departure fee.

Airport Shuttles

Shuttle services run to and from all New Zealand international airports, with most domestic New Zealand airports also offering shuttle buses. Many NZ airport shuttles are flexible and can take you to a private address or pick you up from your NZ accommodation. Airport shuttle services are usually cheaper than taxis if you’re travelling by yourself or as a couple. However, the run to and from the airport might take longer due to stops on the way. When booking your New Zealand airport shuttle, make sure the shuttle bus company is aware of your check-in time.