New Zealand - How to get there

By Air

There are seven international airports in New Zealand, in the capital Wellington, and also Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown, Hamilton & Rotorua. The main airport would probably be Auckland on the North Island, with a wide range of European and international airlines arriving every day. Many people like to start there touring in Auckland and after circumnavigating the North Island, then head South. Flights between Auckland and the South Island airports of Christchurch and Queenstown are regular with Air New Zealand operating several flights every day.

Flying from the UK

If you are flying from the UK, then there are many European, Asian and Australasian airlines that fly to Auckland. E.g. Air New Zealand, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, British Airways and Malaysian Airlines. The flight takes around 25 hours (depending on flight connections). Fares range from around £850 in low season, if you book well in advance, but do increase significantly during busy periods. In general, the earlier you book the better, as flights tend to get more expensive closer to departure. Flying from regional airports such as Manchester, Newcastle or Glasgow will require a stop-over in London, Europe or Asia and normally is a little more expensive than flying from London.

Where to book

We hold an ATOL, and you are welcome to book your flights with us. Please discuss your ideal dates and departure airport with our sales staff, and we will send you a selection of airlines, flight times, and prices. You can then choose whether to book your flights through us, or to make your own arrangements. If you book your own flights, we will still include both your arrival and departure airport transfers. 

By Sea

As New Zealand is an island the easiest and most beautiful way of transferring between the North and South Islands across the Cook Strait is by ferry. The Interislander travels from Picton to Wellington and visa versa 5 times a day (in each direction) and takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. If you have hired a car or motor home for your touring then you will usually drop it off before boarding and pick up a new one on the other island.

If you are incorporating a trip to Australia with your New Zealand adventure then you could cruise from Sydney to Auckland or visa versa. P&O cruises offer cruises of differing durations and destinations.