Auckland Transport

Auckland's public transport system is not as good as it could be. The city suffers from a low population that is spread out over a wide area, and travelling by car has become the preferred option for most people living here. However, many of the attractions are conveniently located, so you will be able to navigate some of them on foot or by local or tour bus.

By bus

Stagecoach Auckland operates a good bus service around the city. One of the most useful routes is 'The Link', which is a loop through the city, Parnell, Newmarket and Ponsonby, stopping at many places that are of interest to visitors. The easily recognisable white buses depart every 10 minutes between 06:00 and 19:00 on weekdays and then every 15 minutes until 23:30. At weekends, services start at 07:00. The fare is payable as you get on the bus and you should have small change ready.

A free red bus operates around the inner city between Britomart, the university and the Sky Tower every 10 minutes between 08:00 and 18:00. If you need to travel farther afield, you will have to take a Stagecoach Bus, with services running as far north as Orewa, on the Hibiscus Coast, and south to Pukekohe. You can pick up timetables from The Bus Place on Victoria Street West, at Britomart or at visitor centres. Look out for the useful Auckland Busabout Guide.

Taxis

There are several private taxi companies in Auckland, and taxis can be flagged down in the street, picked up at taxi stands or ordered by telephone. Stands are found at all terminals and on the corner of Customs Street West at Queen Street. Taxis are metered and have a minimum basic charge. Tipping is not expected. One of the biggest taxi companies is the Auckland Co-op.

Tourist services

There is a good choice of discounted tickets for public transport. The Auckland Discovery Day Pass provides unlimited travel on all buses, trains and inner harbour ferries to the North Shore, while the Auckland Pass is valid on all buses, link buses and North Shore and downtown ferries. Tickets can be purchased upon boarding and at visitor centres. 

The double-decker Explorer Bus operates from the ferry building on Quay Street every 30 minutes from 10:00 to 16:00. It covers 14 major attractions and you can hop on and off as many times as you want in one day.

From the airport

Passengers arriving at the airport requiring ground transportation can choose between buses and taxis. The Air Bus provides a quick and convenient connection to the city. Car hire companies are also on hand, and you can pre-book online to ensure a vehicle.