However, a function was held last night and details of a few happenings would be released later today.
The first terminal served both domestic and international passengers for more than a decade.
A new international terminal was opened in 1977 by Prime Minister Sir Robert Muldoon.
Work has begun on a $180 million development which will double the size of the current international departure lounge.
High flying timeline
1936: Jean Batten achieves fame on her third attempt at flying solo from England to New Zealand. Arriving at Mangere Aerodrome on October 16, she is greeted by a crowd of 6000. Her Percival Gull takes 11 days and 45 minutes for the 23,000km journey, a solo record that stands for 44 years.
1937:Union Airways builds a hangar at Mangere, marking the beginning of commercial aviation in Auckland.
1945:Whenuapai opens up to civil aviation but within a few years is deemed unsuitable for safety reasons.
1951: International Airport Committee is formed, made up of local politicians and business groups.
1955: The Government gives the green light for Mangere.
1960: Construction starts on October 10.
1965: Operations start ahead of official opening.
1966: On January 29, the airport is officially opened by Governor-General Sir Bernard Ferguson. On July 4, an Air NZ DC-8 crashes during a training flight, killing two crew members.
1967: In August, the Herald reports Mt Roskill Mayor Keith Hay as being "absolutely staggered" by the cost of a taxi from the airport to Mt Roskill. He had been quoted $2.45 ($34 in today's money) at the airport for the journey to Carr Rd but that was reduced to $2 after he complained.
1972: First jumbo jet lands.
1977: New international terminal opened -- eight years behind schedule.
1979: Air NZ Fokker Friendship crashes into Manukau Harbour on approach to the airport, killing two of the four crew.
1981: In July protesters clash with police as the Springbok rugby team arrives.
1987: Government corporatises the airport on a 50:50 basis with councils.
1989: Air Freight NZ Convair crashes into the Manukau, killing all three crew.
1992: Air Expo '92 attracts more than 200,000 visitors in one weekend.
1998: Government sells its 51.6 per cent share by public float. Shares list at $1.80 after a campaign fronted by Sean Fitzpatrick.
2007-08: Buyers hover, first from Dubai and then from Canada. An abrupt law change effectively nobbles a Canadian pension fund's bid for the airport.
2011: As many as 7000 Tongan rugby fans greet their team, providing massive impetus for the Rugby World Cup.
2016: The airport celebrates its 50th anniversary and announces plans for a $180 million international departures area.
