As a plane-spotter from way back, there’s an unrivalled new perch to gaze at aircraft while resting up in the lap of luxury at Auckland Airport. Just before Christmas —after four years of stop-start construction thanks to Covid— Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel, opened for business. And she’s been worth the wait. Just 100 metres from the international terminal, not only is this one of New Zealand’s most architecturally distinctive hotels, but it delivers one of our nation’s finest 5-star premium hotel experiences. I’ve just spent a night at the airport newcomer and across all touch points of customer service and comfort, it’s a superlative place to rest your head and recharge.  

If you’re wondering about the name, ‘Te Arikinui’ was gifted to this Pullman hotel by Kiingi Tuheitia. It means ‘Supreme Ariki’ or ‘Supreme Paramount Chief’ which chimes nicely with the hotel’s 5-star credentials. Across this 311-room hotel, from the moment you approach its entrance, the thoughtful intermingling of culture and design is ever-present. It’s three-pointed star shape is indelible new marker for the nation’s gateway, whether you’re starting or finishing your journey, or simply laying over before your onward travels. 

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Warren and Mahoney Architects designed the hotel, following on from their previous work on the sister property, the Novotel Auckland Airport, just across the courtyard. A harmonising design element infusing both properties is the Sea to Sky design theme – a nod to the spirit of adventure and discovery by the people of Tainui waka, who arrived at Manukau Harbour around 1350.  

Kiingitanga, celestial voyages, stories of great taniwha, and references to ancient and precious korowai are all referenced in the cultural design patterns crafted for Te Arikinui Pullman Auckland Airport Hotel. Designed by Renata Te Wiata, a range of materials including aluminium, stone, wall fabric, glass and timber have been deployed in the hotel’s patterning features. The hotel has not skimped on sustainability features, such as a high-performance ‘thermal envelope’ to reduce energy demands, energy efficient lighting, use of FSC-certified timber throughout and recycled materials where these can be seamlessly integrated. 

I adored my accommodation’s refined design, underpinned by a sense of simplicity, space, light and ultra-comfort. Push the boat out and upgrade to one of the stunning executive suites on the hotel’s two highest floors. The Executive Suite is tailormade for those desiring that added luxury layer on a hotel stay. When you enter this premium spacious sanctuary, you can kick-back in the suite’s separate lounge area before retiring to horizontal position in the adjoining separate bedroom. Indulge in some personal pamper time in the suite bathtub, which is was nearly big enough to do laps in. The floor to ceiling windows serve up dreamy runway views and out to Manukau Harbour, while blackout curtains will allow you to drift off into Nod-land, if your body clock is still catching up on time zones. 

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If you are feeling peckish, your suite stay includes access to Te Kaahu Executive Lounge, which brims with all those special touches you’d expect from a premium 5-star hotel. Complimentary breakfast, evening drinks with canapés, and refreshments throughout the day are all part of the package. Lounge access is exclusive to guests of the Executive Rooms and Suites. You can also help yourself to the extensive buffet breakfast offering in the adjacent Te Kaahu restaurant, which strikes the perfect balance of nutritional breakfast offerings and indulgent treats. Whether you’re staying in-house or not, Te Kaahu offers a signature dining experience throughout the day and evening. I highly recommend the Savannah beef short ribs! Book ahead. 

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Te Arikinui Pullman’s effervescent hotel staff are so welcoming and outgoing, and the level of service is flawless.  After being away from New Zealand for so many weeks, staying here was such a celebratory way to feel right at home – again. It’s a star performer. www.pullmanaucklandairport.com 

Whether you’re flying across the nation or across the Tasman, Auckland is well served by the low-fares leader, Jetstar. When you book on Jetstar.com, you're guaranteed the lowest fare. With their Price Beat Guarantee, if you find a better fare online, they’ll beat it by 10% - and that includes Jetstar flights you find on other websites. Jetstar ensures its base fares are the most affordable, by giving you complete choice and flexibility over whether to include checked luggage, an in-flight snack or assigned seat. For the best fares, head to www.jetstar.com 

Mike Yardley is our resident traveller on Jack Tame Saturday Mornings.