Getting Around Auckland

From ferries and buses to trains and taxis, there’s no shortage of ways to get around Auckland. Whether you prefer to use public transport or a private vehicle, here’s what you need to know about transport in Auckland.

Auckland public transport

Auckland’s public transport system includes buses, ferries, and trains. The best way to find timetables, routes and fares for all of them is on the AT website. If you know you will use these services often, visit a dairy (corner store) to purchase an AT HOP card – a reusable card that you can swipe to board these services and to get discounts on rides.

Buses are best for getting around the central city and nearby suburbs. For example, the CityLink buses are bright red and run regular loops around the CBD, and these cost just $1 per ride, or less if you use an AT HOP card.

Trains are generally used for commuting to outer suburbs such as Onehunga, Papakura, and Manukau. You will find the train station on Queen Street by the waterfront.

Ferries offer an alternative solution to crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge by car to seaside suburbs outside of the city. Many people commute from Devonport, which is just 12 minutes on the ferry across the harbour. The ferry building is right on the waterfront at the end of Queen Street.

You can also use the extensive taxi network to get around Auckland. It’s easy to flag one down when you’re in the city centre, or you can call and book one with the Co-Op Taxi Company. Alternatively, Uber has a strong presence in Auckland, and can often offer a more affordable ride than a traditional taxi.

Driving in Auckland

The roads in the city include a number of motorways in and out of town, which are the fastest and easiest method of getting around Auckland when you have your own car. Within the city, be wary of the occasional one-way street, and try to avoid driving on Queen Street (the main road through the heart of the city) as it can be quite congested. If you’re heading north, you’ll cross the Auckland Harbour Bridge and take the Northern Motorway away from the city. If you’re heading south, join the Southern Motorway for the fastest drive. Note that there are no toll roads in or around Auckland.

Getting a New Zealand driver’s licence

If you already have a current driver’s licence from your home country, this will be valid in New Zealand for the first year. Note that it must be in English, and, if not, you must carry a valid translation when you drive.

Should you stay more than a year, you will need to apply to convert your licence. To do this, your overseas licence must still be valid, or have expired within the last 12 months. You can do this at any driver licensing agency.

You will need to:

  • Complete an application form
  • Present your overseas licence (and the translation if it is not in English)
  • Offer another form of identification (such as a passport)
  • Offer proof of current New Zealand address
  • Present a current medical certificate (if required)
  • Complete and pass an eye test
  • Pay the licence fee

Depending on your home country, you may also need to pass a theory and practical test. Find more detailed information at http://www.nzta.govt.nz/driver-licences/

Car rental in Auckland

If you’re only in Auckland for a short amount of time, a car rental may be a more practical solution than purchasing a vehicle. There is a wide range of rental suppliers in Auckland, and you can compare vehicles and brands for your time in town on AirportRentals.