Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel

Now Open

A brand new, five-star hotel has opened at Auckland Airport and it’s set to turn what you thought you knew about airport hotels on its head. Overlooking the buzzing international terminal with spectacular runway views and out to the Manukau Heads, Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland is a fascinating place to spend a few hours, a day or a night.

The first five-star hotel in the Auckland Airport precinct, this architectural jewel in the crown exudes class from entering the soaring lobby to enjoying the carefully crafted cocktails in the bar overlooking the runway on the ninth floor.

Thoughtfully designed cultural elements thread through the entire hotel—delightfully curved walls give onto carvings created by Renata Te Wiata (Ngaati Mahuta)—the Carving Manager of Waikato Tainui—which reflect the journey of adventure and discovery by the people of Tainui waka following their arrival at Manukau Harbour around 1350. The hotel’s unique name was gifted by Kiingi Tuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero VII, the Māori King and means ‘Supreme Ariki’ or ‘Supreme Paramount Chief'.

The perfectly curated chief vibes continue in the 311 rooms, each giving a different aspect of the airport and its surroundings. With everything the traveller needs, and nothing that you don’t, expect full-length soundproof windows (a revelation), crisp linen, a Nespresso machine and even a desk where you can catch up on work or simply sit and watch the world go by.

Upgrade to a top-floor executive room where you can enjoy the view from your comfy chaise longue by the window, browse a selection of premium NZ spirits and also experience the benefits of Te Kaahu Lounge.

Te Kaahu restaurant and bar on the ninth floor is worth a visit even if you're not staying at the hotel. Helmed by the esteemed chef, Nancye Pirini (Te Whanau aa Apanui, Te Rarawa) who works with the finest seasonal and local ingredients, this is without a doubt the best place to eat well before, or after you travel. 

Boasting a menu that reflects the best of Aotearoa from the creamed paua tart and fried bread with kina pâté to the pork belly boil-up and pohutukawa smoked potatoes, this is a great introduction to indigenous kai whether it’s your first time to New Zealand or a seasoned local. With arrivals and departure boards dotted throughout the bar and restaurant, you can easily watch your flight. 

After a great night’s sleep, catch an early or late breakfast at Te Kaahu, where an impressive array of hot and cold treats await you.

On your (no doubt reluctant) way out, grab and go or enjoy a quick lunch at the stunning ground floor Kuriri Café before heading across the road to catch your flight. If only all travel were so easy.

Image credit: Pullman Auckland Airport | Supplied