Auckland Airport Guide
Located south of Auckland at Mangere, Auckland Airport is the arrival and departure point for millions of travellers to and from New Zealand each year. Recreational facilities near the airport include an adventure golf course and a fitness trail. The airport region is bordered on one side by the Manukau Harbour. The harbour is large and shallow, opening on the west coast into the wild Tasman Sea.
Attractions:
- Airtime Magic
A museum of kiwiana and memorabilia at the international terminal.
- Mangere Mountain
Mangere Mountain, the site of a major Maori pa (fortified village), overlooks the airport region. The pa was thought to be established as early as 1823. A walk leads to the summit.
- Villa Maria Winery
This award-winning winery at Mangere produces some of the country's best wines. Tours and tastings are available by arrangement, 5 Kirkbride Road.
- Mangere Leisure Centre
This fun-filled complex for families has five pools, a slippery pole, trampolines and an adventure playground.
- Shopping
Auckland Airport is renowned for its excellent duty-free shopping and there is also a large shopping complex outside the terminals. Nearby Mangere has a vibrant shopping mall which prides itself on its free multi-cultural performances held in the Centre Court each week. The suburb of Papatoetoe is also worth visiting for shopping.
- The Grange Golf Course
At nearby Papatoetoe, this is one of the country's top golf courses and a regular host of the NZ Golf Open, 2 Grange Road.