Top Airlines Offering Cheap Flights to New Zealand

Finding the right flights is key to exploring this captivating country inexpensively. Here are the top airlines that offer affordable plane tickets to New Zealand.

Find Major Airports in New Zealand

When flying to New Zealand, these major airports offer a diverse range of travel experiences, from the vibrant city life in Auckland to the natural wonders of Queenstown and the cultural richness of Wellington. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, these airports provide excellent entry points for your New Zealand journey.

Auckland International Airport is the largest international airport in New Zealand, handling over 20 million passengers every year. It serves as a significant cultural and economic center, offering visitors a convenient entry point to explore both the North and South Islands. Additionally, Auckland serves as a hub for passengers flying to New Zealand from the USA

The second-largest airport in New Zealand, Christchurch International Airport provides seamless access to the beautiful South Island. It’s a crucial gateway for those looking to explore the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures this region offers.

Wellington, the capital city, provides a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. Flying into Wellington International Airport places you in the heart of this vibrant city, which is why it’s preferred by those looking for cheap flights to New Zealand from Melbourne (MEL) and Sydney (SYD). 

Located in Frankton, Queenstown Airport offers international flights to and from Brisbane (BNE), Melbourne (MEL), Sydney (SYD), and the Gold Coast (OOL). Known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World,’ Queenstown is a must-visit for thrill-seekers into skiing, bungee jumping, and hiking.

As one of the major airports on the South Island, Dunedin International Airport is an excellent option for those looking to explore the region’s unique wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Flying from Dunedin Airport allows travelers to explore the unique wildlife and historic charm of the Otago Peninsula while experiencing a more relaxed travel environment.

Flights to New Zealand Snapshot

Economy Class

OneAir - Travel the world for less
TOTAL NUMBER OF ECONOMY CLASS DEALS TO New Zealand IN THE LAST MONTH​

17

Seat - Cheap Flights - OneAir
AVERAGE ONEAIR INTERNATIONAL ECONOMY ROUNDTRIP DEAL​ TO New Zealand

$922

Business Class

OneAir - Travel the world for less
TOTAL NUMBER OF BUSINESS CLASS DEALS TO New Zealand IN THE LAST MONTH​

14

Business Class - Cheap Flights - OneAir
AVERAGE ONEAIR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS CLASS ROUNDTRIP DEAL​ TO New Zealand

$3100

The Best Time to Visit New Zealand

The most economical time to fly to New Zealand is typically during the spring months of September to November. During this period, the landscape bursts into life with vibrant blossoms, and tourist numbers are generally lower, resulting in more affordable accommodation and activity options. Spring offers milder temperatures ideal for outdoor adventures and exploring the country’s blooming gardens without breaking the bank.

 

On the other hand, the peak tourist season in New Zealand falls during the summer months from December to February. While this time boasts long sunny days, perfect for beach outings, water sports, and hiking, it also comes with higher prices for flights and accommodations due to increased demand. Travelers can expect bustling attractions and higher costs during the summer season. Therefore, for those prioritizing budget-conscious travel, spring presents an ideal window to experience New Zealand’s beauty without the premium price tag.

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Cheapest months to fly

September to November

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Most Expensive Months to Fly

December to February

Compare Prices

Here’s a breakdown of plane ticket prices to New Zealand’s Auckland Airport (AKL) when flying from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). 

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Frequently Asked Questions

The top airports in the USA for finding cheap flights to New Zealand include major international gateways like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). 

The duration of a nonstop flight from the USA to New Zealand can vary depending on the departure and arrival cities. On average, a nonstop flight from the West Coast of the USA (e.g., Los Angeles or San Francisco) to Auckland, New Zealand, takes approximately 12 to 13 hours. Flights from the East Coast or other US cities may have longer durations due to the need for layovers or connecting flights.

  • Los Angeles to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 12 to 13 hours
  • San Francisco (SFO) to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 12 to 13 hours
  • Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 15 to 16 hours
  • Honolulu (HNL) to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 8 to 9 hours
  • Chicago (ORD) to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 16 to 17 hours
  • New York (JFK) to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 18 to 19 hours
  • Houston (IAH) to Auckland (AKL): Approximately 15 to 16 hours

The frequency of nonstop flights from the US to New Zealand can also vary. During the peak travel season, typically from December to February, you can find more frequent nonstop flights, especially from major West Coast airports. However, it’s essential to check with airlines and flight schedules for the most up-to-date information on flight frequencies. Airlines often adjust their schedules based on demand and seasonal factors.

The best time to book a flight to New Zealand is typically 2 to 3 months in advance for the best deals. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) for milder weather and fewer crowds.

The time difference between the USA and New Zealand varies depending on daylight saving time changes. Generally, New Zealand is 17 to 20 hours ahead of Pacific Time (PT) and 17 to 19 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).

The flight distance between the USA and New Zealand varies depending on the departure and arrival cities. For example, from Los Angeles to Auckland, it is approximately 6,500 miles (10,460 kilometers).

Major airlines offering flights to New Zealand include Air New Zealand, American Airlines, Qantas, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, and Virgin Australia.

Major New Zealand cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch offer various transportation options from the airport to the city center, including buses, shuttles, taxis, and rental cars.

Under the Visa Waiver Program (NZeTA), U.S. passport holders can travel to New Zealand for up to 90 days without a visa. They can apply for this online before traveling.

Discover New Zealand

Looking for cheap flights to New Zealand? OneAir makes it easy to discover incredible flight deals to destinations around the world. Follow these simple steps to start saving on your next trip.

 

  • Set your departure airports on OneAir. Choose your preferred departure airports, and we’ll search for the cheapest flights from those cities to New Zealand. OneAir offers deals from over 50 major US airports, so you can find the most convenient and affordable options. 
  • Be flexible with your travel dates. If your schedule allows, use our “Explore” or “Add Destinations” feature to find the most affordable days to fly to New Zealand. Shifting your dates by just a day or two can often result in significant savings.
  • Turn on your notifications. We’ll notify you via email or push notification whenever the price for your selected route is at its lowest. This way, you’ll never miss a deal.
  • Compare flight options from multiple providers. Choose the cheapest, fastest, or most convenient flights to New Zealand based on your priorities.
  • Filter for direct flights. If you prefer nonstop service to New Zealand, simply tick the “Nonstop” box when searching. We’ll show you all available nonstop routes, so you can avoid lengthy layovers.
  • Get the best unpublished deals. Dreaming of a luxurious journey to New Zealand? We also find the best deals on Premium Economy, Business, and First Class fares. Compare prices across all cabin classes – you might be surprised by an affordable premium seat.
  • Expand your search to nearby airports. Unlock even more deals by searching for flights to New Zealand from nearby airports. This will show you flight prices from alternative departure airports close to your origin city.

Book a complete travel package. Once you’ve found your perfect flight to New Zealand, why not add a hotel room or rental car? OneAir also offers exclusive hotel, car, and activity deals, so you can save even more on your entire trip.

 

Discover New Destinations with the “Explore” Tab. Not set on New Zealand? Use our “Explore” search to find the cheapest flights from your city to anywhere in the world. You might just discover your next dream vacation spot!