R
emember the days when the
thought of an airport layover
brought shudders and a sense
of dread? Today’s airports are
breaking out of that mold —
and breaking all the old rules — to
offer bespoke services to modern
travelers. From luxury lounges,
modern spas and art museums,
to wine bars, gourmet restaurants
and markets filled with fresh
produce, airports around the world
are revolutionizing the travel
experience. Discover a new place each
month for your next luxe layover.
Auckland Airport,
Auckland, New Zealand: AKL
Auckland Airport—AKL—is New
Zealand’s largest airport, located
about 20 km (12.5 miles) from
Auckland on the North Island in the
suburb of Mangere. The airport
started out in 1928 as the Auckland
Aero Club, on land rented from
a local dairy farmer. At the time,
the Mangere Aerodrome was known
to off r r at an in o tion an
was a logical choice in 1960 when
New Zealand needed a new airport.
Much of today’s airport land is
reclaimed from the Manukau Harbor.
Originally, one terminal and one
runway became the Auckland Airport.
Th r t i ht too off in o
r
an th air ort o ia y o n
in January 1966. An international
terminal was added in 1977 and
remodeled in 2006.
Today, the airport encompasses
a little more than 3,700 acres,
welcomes in 22 international
air in
yin to
int rnationa
destinations. With more than 120
int rnationa i ht a ay an
or
than
o
ti i ht
o in
i ion o
a y ar it i a y
to see why this is one of the busiest
airports in Australasia. With more
than 100 retail outlets covering more
than 172,000 square feet, a selection
of restaurants and an international
terminal that never closes, it’s also
easy to see why AKL was voted best
air ort in
tra ia a i
or
The AKL Airport Layout
The Auckland Airport consists
of a domestic terminal and an
international terminal. When you
arrive at AKL, you will need to show
your passport, arrival card and any
applicable visas (US visitors do not
need a visa for travel to New
Zealand). When you arrive in New
Zealand, you must also have a return
ticket and enough money to fund your
visit. If you are transferring to
anoth r int rnationa i ht
or
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