Puhinui Station has one primary purpose for most passengers — it is Auckland's best public transport connection to Auckland Airport. The AirportLink bus departs from directly outside the station every 10 minutes, running from 4:30am to 12:30am, 7 days a week, to both Auckland Domestic and International Terminals. The train and bus combination is by far the most reliable, affordable and stress-free way to reach the airport from the city.
✈️ Allow enough time. The AirportLink takes 15–25 minutes from Puhinui to the airport depending on traffic. Add your train journey time from the city — Waitematā to Puhinui is approximately 35 minutes. We recommend arriving at Puhinui 60 to 90 minutes before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.
Auckland Airport via AirportLink
The AirportLink bus departs from directly outside Puhinui Station and serves both terminals.
Auckland Airport — AirportLink
The AirportLink departs from directly outside Puhinui Station every 10 minutes, running from 4:30am to 12:30am, 7 days a week. The journey takes between 15 and 25 minutes depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. The bus stops at both the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. Standard AT HOP fare applies — no airport surcharge. The bus stop is directly outside the station entrance on Puhinui Road — follow the signs from the platform.
Daily 4:30am–12:30am · Every 10 minutes · AirportLinkNearby Attractions via AirportLink
The AirportLink stops at several points en route to the airport — useful for reaching attractions near the terminal precinct.
A family wildlife attraction near the airport — tropical butterfly house, crocodiles, dinosaur experience, farmyard animals and a train ride. A popular destination for families visiting the airport area. Take the AirportLink to the Tom Pearce Drive stop — Butterfly Creek is a 5-minute walk from there.
Check website for current hours · Tom Pearce Drive stop
Treasure Island Adventure Golf
An adventure mini golf course near the airport — a fun outing for families before or after a flight, or for a day trip from the city by bus. Take the AirportLink to the Tom Pearce Drive stop — Treasure Island is an 8-minute walk from there.
Check website for current hours · Tom Pearce Drive stop
An outlet and retail shopping centre near the airport — worth combining with a flight day if time allows. Take the AirportLink to the Laurence Stevens Drive stop — Manawa Bay is approximately a 10-minute walk from there. Note the walk is uncovered, so bring an umbrella in wet weather.
Check website for current hours · Laurence Stevens Drive stop · Walk is uncoveredBus Routes
Bus stops are directly outside the station on Puhinui Road.
| Route | Serves | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| AirportLink | Puhinui Station ↔ Auckland Airport (Domestic & International Terminals) | Every 10 min · 4:30am–12:30am |
| 37 | Manurewa Station ↔ Highbrook via Clendon, Puhinui & Preston Rd | Frequent |
💡 The AirportLink is the fastest and most direct option to the airport — every 10 minutes, no detours. The new Route 37 provides an additional connection serving Clendon, Puhinui and Preston Road. Always confirm timetables at at.govt.nz.
⚠️ Bus route and timetable information was current at time of writing. Always check at.govt.nz for current timetables and any service changes, especially during public holidays.