Flights to New Zealand

Kia Ora and welcome to New Zealand! A naturally stunning country bursting at the seams with adventure, a world-class food and wine scene, and a proud Maori culture.

Situated just east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand’s collection of rugged lunar landscapes make it feel as though it’s a world away. And while it may be a little farther than our own backyard, this nearby duo of islands is well worth the short haul flight. From cosmopolitan city centres backed by extinct volcanic cones to undulating mountain ranges emerging from the sea, New Zealand’s North and South Islands have an abundance of unique experiences just waiting to be explored.

Book flights to New Zealand with Virgin Australia and discover how good life is across the ditch.

Where do we fly into New Zealand?

Virgin Australia flies into Queenstown and has a codeshare arrangement with Air New Zealand for onward flights into other cities or regional centres.

Flights to Queenstown

When is the best time of year to fly to New Zealand?

Afforded with a predominately temperate climate, each season in New Zealand brings its own charms.

In summer, temperatures can range between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, while the coldest parts of the country can reach more than 10 degrees below zero in the winter months.

If you’re planning to enjoy swimming, sunshine and leafy national parks, plan your visit between September and February, when the days are long and the nights are warm.

Alternatively, if you’re after a snow-based adventure, book your holiday in New Zealand from March to August, when frost and snow cover the South Island. Regardless of the season, be sure to pack your bags with the country’s high annual rainfall in mind, which can see up to 1500 millimetres fall throughout the course of the year.

What are the top North Island attractions?

Auckland

Known as the gateway to New Zealand’s North Island, this bourgeoning urban centre is also the country’s largest. And while its growing size has had no impact on its reputation for hospitality, Auckland’s dynamic population has created a culture onto its own. With natural landscapes, cosmopolitan attractions and small town charm in equal measure, this happening travel hub is far more than a means to an end.

Hobbiton

New Zealand’s scenery is often described as ‘unreal’, but Hobbiton brings even more fantasy into the region’s landscape. Located two hours south of Auckland in Matamata, this movie-set-turned-tourist-attraction transports visitors to the heart of Middle-earth, where the screen adaptation of J.R.R Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings was filmed. And with famous movie landmarks like The Green Dragon Inn on site, visitors can spend a day in the life of their favourite character.

Rotorua

A more natural phenomenon found south of Auckland, Rotorua’s robust geothermal activity draws visitors all year round, with erupting geysers and soothing hot springs at every turn. Also home to a living Maori village, this literal hotbed of activity is the perfect place to experience New Zealand’s diverse indigenous culture and incredible landscapes all at once.

Lake Taupo

Spanning a surface area of more than 600 square kilometres, Lake Taupo easily claims the title of New Zealand’s largest lake – but there’s more to this body of water than meets the eye. The flooded caldera of a former volcano, Lake Taupo’s unique geographic history is evident in its surrounds, with strings of mountain ranges dotting its edge. Easily explored by bike, boat or on foot, this scenic destination is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

What are the top South Island attractions?

Queenstown

Fondly regarded as the Adventure Capital of the World, this well-known collection of ski fields and slopes was practically made for snow lovers – but skiing isn’t Queenstown’s only claim to fame. Situated at the base of the Southern Alps, this lakeside town offers everything from bungy jumping to bushwalking, with plenty of other activities to be discovered between. Whether you embark on a white water rafting expedition down the Shotover River or catapult across a valley on the world’s biggest swing, there’s no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline going in Queenstown.

Milford Sound

Often referred to simply as ‘The Sounds’, this stunning natural attraction has earned itself a reputation as one of New Zealand’s number one tourist attractions – and for good reason. An impressive collection of rolling hills, fjords and free-flowing waterfalls, Milford Sound’s incredible setting has to be seen to be believed. Whether you explore the area aboard a boat cruise, kayak or scenic flight, this South Island treasure is a sight not to miss.

Wanaka

Afforded with the same alpine landscape as Queenstown without the crowds, Wanaka is one of the South Island’s best kept secrets. And while its extensive range of winter activities make it a popular destination during snow season, this dynamic area has just as much to offer in the warmer months. From the abundant native forests of Mount Aspiring National Park to the mountain bike trails along Lake Wanaka’s shores, this collection of waterside villages provides travellers with plenty to discover all year round.

Franz Josef Glacier

Perched above the town of Franz Josef, this spectacular pillar of ice is one of the South Island’s most well-known sights. And while an easy, 20-minute walk will provide you with stunning views, the best way to experience the glacier is by guided tour, which takes visitors beyond the barriers and out onto the ice.

Get to know Australia’s eastern neighbour. Book flights to New Zealand with Virgin Australia today.