Travellers and companions with time to spare will have opportunity to explore the new shopping mall opening right by Auckland Airport this week.

The new $200-million-plus premium outlet centre Mānawa Bay opened on Thursday, with launch celebrations running from September 19-22.

BloggerAtLarge writer Megan Singleton says this might seem like an unusual spot to set up a mall - but it gives people staying in the nearby hotels something to explore without going as far as the city.

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