Cheap flights to South Island

How long is the flight to the South Island?

Flights to New Zealand from the US west coast out of Los Angeles (LAX) will take 14hr 25min if you fly through Auckland (AKL) to the most popular airports in South Island: Christchurch (CHC) and Queenstown (ZQN). However, if you have a layover in Australia, the travel time will increase and will range between 17 and 19 h. If you’re flying from the east coast from New York or Atlanta, transit will be a little longer, and the total travel time will come in around 19-22 h. Cheap flights to New Zealand, can take up to 25h and may transit through Japan, Korea or Chile.

Where can you get direct flights to the South Island from?

Unfortunately there are no direct flights available between the USA and the South Island. However one-stop routes are available from the west coast. South Island flight deals out of Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO) make one stop, commonly in Auckland, New Zealand (AKL) or Australia, in Melbourne (MEL) or Sydney (SYD). If you’re flying from the east coast, you will need at least two stops. Flights from New York, Atlanta and Washington DC will typically make stops in Houston and Auckland before arriving in the South Island.

What is the best way to travel around the South Island?

Taking domestic flights between cities is a common mode of transportation on the South Island. There are also two Kiwirail train lines, the Coastal Pacific, which runs between Christchurch and Picton in the north, as well as the TranzAlpine, which runs between Christchurch and Greymouth on the western side of the island. These trains typically offer unlimited day passes, so that travelers are able to stop in different destinations before completing their trip. There are also several coach bus companies available as an affordable option. Stray Bus and Kiwi Experience are two companies that offer hop on hop off bus tours of popular destinations.

What are some things to do on the South Island?

The South Island is known for its many national parks and scenic mountains, and many people visit to ski, hike, camp, bike or marvel at the great outdoors. If you are this type of traveler consider checking out Fiordland National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be experienced via air, boat or on foot. Or if you’re looking for more outdoor adventure, consider going heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier. Or you can go whale watching in Kaikoura and catch a glimpse of the abundant marine life that swims nearby. Bungy jumping was invented outside of Queenstown, so if you’re looking for a thrill, don't miss this adrenaline-filled fun time. On the other hand, if you're looking for more of the history and culture, consider visiting the Larnach Castle in Dunedin, the only castle in New Zealand, or go wine-tasting in Central Otago, which is world-renowned for the Pinot Noir.

Do I need a passport or visa to fly to the South Island?

US Citizens do not need a visa to fly to the South Island if traveling for tourism purposes, but a passport is required. Instead of a visa, travelers are required to apply for an ETA, which grants tourists multiple entries to the South Island for two years. With an ETA, visitors may stay a maximum of 90 days per entry. To apply for an ETA, you will need a passport valid for at least six months upon arrival, arrival and departure dates and a credit or debit card. The processing time will take 24 hours, but can be expedited if need be.