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New Zealand, a country known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, is also home to a network of airports that connect this beautiful nation to the world. There are 62 airports in New Zealand and we wanted to talk about the 22 most important ones.
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first visit, understanding the airports in New Zealand is key to a smooth journey.
International Airports
Auckland Airport (AKL)
The largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, serving over 30 airlines and operating flights to over 100 destinations worldwide. Situated 19 kilometers (12 miles) south of Auckland city center, it offers a wide range of amenities and facilities, including a dedicated International Terminal, a domestic terminal, and a cargo terminal.
Christchurch Airport (CHC)
The second busiest airport in New Zealand, serving over 20 airlines and handling flights to over 30 destinations globally. Situated 12 kilometers (7 miles) east of Christchurch city center, it boasts two terminals: the South Terminal, catering to domestic and international flights, and the North Terminal, focused on international arrivals.
Queenstown Airport (ZQN)
The third busiest airport in New Zealand, known for its picturesque location just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Queenstown city center. It serves over 20 airlines and operates flights to over 30 destinations worldwide, making it a popular gateway to the South Island's stunning landscapes and adventure activities.
Wellington International Airport (WLG)
The fourth busiest airport in New Zealand, situated 12 kilometers (7 miles) north of Wellington city center. It serves over 20 airlines and operates flights to over 20 destinations worldwide, serving as a hub for domestic and regional travel.
Tauranga Airport (TRG)
A regional airport with international connections, located 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) from Tauranga city center. It serves domestic and international flights, primarily connecting to destinations in Australia.
Dunedin Airport (DUD)
A regional airport with limited international connections, located 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from Dunedin city center. It primarily serves domestic flights but also offers seasonal international connections to Australia and other Pacific islands.
Domestic Airports
Hamilton International Airport (HLZ)
Serves as a regional hub for the Waikato region, operating domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand.
New Plymouth Airport (NPL)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, serving as a gateway to the Taranaki region.
Napier Airport (NPR)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, serving as a gateway to the Hawke's Bay region.
Gisborne Airport (GIS)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, serving as a gateway to the East Coast region.
Palmerston North International Airport (PMR)
A regional airport with limited international connections, located 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Palmerston North city center. It primarily serves domestic flights but also offers occasional international charter flights to Australia.
Hastings Airport (HBA)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, serving as a gateway to the Hastings region.
Nelson Airport (NSN)
A regional airport with international connections, located 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) from Nelson city center. It serves as a gateway to the Tasman region and handles flights to several international destinations, particularly in Australia.
Blenheim Airport (BHE)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand and operates international flights to Australia.
Greymouth Airport (GMZ)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, being the gateway to the West Coast region.
Paraparaumu Airport (PPL)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, a popular gateway to Wellington city.
Kerikeri Airport (KRL)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, a gateway to the Bay of Islands region.
Whangarei Airport (WGR)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, a gateway to the Northland region.
Stratford Airport (TKR)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, a gateway to the Taranaki region.
Rotorua Airport (ROT)
A regional airport with limited international connections, located 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from Rotorua city center. It serves domestic flights and a few international routes to Australia and smaller Pacific islands.
Taupo Airport (TAH)
Serves domestic flights to major cities in New Zealand, a gateway to the central North Island region.
Invercargill Airport (IRG)
A regional airport with limited international connections, located 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from Invercargill city center. It serves domestic flights and occasionally operates international charter flights to Australia.
In conclusion, while airports provide the entry points to New Zealand, exploring the country by road offers a unique perspective. Consider renting a caravan from Campervan New Zealand for a flexible and intimate way to discover the diverse landscapes and hidden gems of New Zealand.
New Zealand's airports are more than just transportation hubs; they are the starting points of countless memorable journeys. Whether you're flying into an international airport in NZ or hopping between islands through domestic flights, each airport offers a unique gateway to explore this magnificent country.
