Air New Zealand Air Points - Some quick questions

Hi all,

I'll be flying NZ for the first time in years this november from PER-AKL-PPT in business class and I was wondering a few things.

I've got a few hours layover in AKL - more like 12 really. Is AKL far from the city and how much would it cost to catch a cab there.

Also, do NZ's 763's have PTV's in business and how are the seats? pitch, layout etc.

Thanks for any help! cheers

Nick

Hi Shortfinals,

See http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=24710&highlight=layover+auckland

for some good information.

Kiwiflyer has pointed out elsewhere that you can get an exemption sticker for the departure tax at the transit desk (if I recall correctly).

Have lunch at White Restaurant in the Hilton. The views are stunning and so is the food. If you arrive on a weekday they do a special lunch for $35 (NZ) which includes an entree and a main (normally mains are $35). Perhaps catch a ferry across to Devonport (10 minute boatride across the harbour, leaves every 20 minutes or so, from near the Hilton).

If you're into sailing you could join one of the America's Cup boats for a sail on the Waitemata Harbour. Or you could go swimming with dolphins (4 hour tours), or if you're really keen, join a wine-tasting tour (about 6 hours all up) to Waiheke Island. Or just go shopping in Parnell or Ponsonby. Loads to do.

You'll enjoy yourself - Auckland is a fantastic city.

ps taxis would be about $40 nowadays, maybe more. Take the airbus to the city (about $14) and ask to be dropped off near the Hilton (it will be a 10 minute walk from there). If you take it to return to the aiport to get a RTN ticket as it's cheaper.

ps taxis would be about $40 nowadays, maybe more. Take the airbus to the city (about $14) and ask to be dropped off near the Hilton (it will be a 10 minute walk from there). If you take it to return to the aiport to get a RTN ticket as it's cheaper.

Taxi to city is around NZD$45-55 (+$5 heading from airport to city) each way depending on traffic. Airbus is NZD$15 one-way, NZD$22 return - and runs every 20 minutes (except before 7am? and after 6pm). If you are tight on time, taxi should be 35-50 minutes vs 45-60 for airbus.