Auckland (1)

Auckland City Centre
Photo by Haani

Chances are you'll fly into Auckland International Airport south of Auckland. Near Manukau Harbor, it's not the easiest place to face your first time driving on the left side of the road in a strange vehicle that flips on the windshield wipers and smears bugs every time you reach for your turn signals. You'll probably want to check out at least some of Auckland's tourist attractions, so you'll need accommodations for a night or two.

There are several quality hotels near the Auckland Airport. If you are driving an auto or RVing, the Great South Road runs parallel to and crosses over the motorway. Grocery stores, restaurants and motels are all along this old highway. Fifteen to twenty minutes south at Manurewa or Papakura, traffic thins out and prices are reasonable-- don't forget your AAA card. Before checking into a motel, stop at a supermarket for breakfast and snacks. Rooms have mini kitchens with coffee and tea.

About a thirty minute drive north of the airport, central Auckland offers a variety of accommodations. To find something in your price range, try Auckland Hotels.

Another option if you've rented an auto or RV is to book into the Top 10 Holiday Park, at nearby Manukau City. The Top 10 Holiday Park is close to downtown Auckland, a mall, and Rainbow's End Adventure Park-- a large amusement park. Rooms are rented with or without linen. Bring your own linen for a lower price. You'll share toilet/shower facilities and the community kitchen and TV/reading room. Another advantage of the Top 10 Holiday Park, if you're driving an auto or RVing-- city buses stop right outside. Auckland is a large city squeezed through a tiny isthmus. If you're not ready to tackle city traffic and the frustration of finding a parking space while driving on the wrong side of the road-- hop on the bus.

If you have a KOA card, bring it. Top 10 Parks offer a 10% discount with your KOA card. They sell their own card for about 20$US. The card purchased when you check in, is good for two years and is reciprocal with a US KOA card. In New Zealand, your KOA card brings discounts on entertainment and food.

Don't leave home without your AAA or KOA card.

Lyn