Planning a trip from Auckland to Chicago? You're in for a treat. Chicago, a city renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture and stunning architecture, offers a unique travel experience. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower, Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), and a beautiful waterfront along Lake Michigan. Beyond the city centre, you will find many interesting museums, delicious restaurants and stunning parks. The fastest way to reach this fascinating metropolis is by direct flight, which usually takes around 20 hours. However, flight duration can be affected by weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific aircraft used. Major airlines like Air New Zealand and United Airlines offer direct flights, with daily or multiple flights weekly. If there is no direct route available, you can find alternative flight paths with layovers in major hubs like Los Angeles, Honolulu or even Sydney, which could add significantly to the travel time. For cost-effective travel, the ideal months for budget travellers are typically November to April, excluding holiday periods. Booking flights well in advance, at least 2-3 months prior to departure, will also generally help you secure the best deals. Peak travel times are June to August, when Chicago's warm weather draws many tourists and the city is alive with festivals and events. On the other hand, off-peak periods from November to April offer a quieter city experience with potentially lower prices, though some outdoor attractions will be limited by the weather.

Chicago boasts a humid continental climate, experiencing distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 21°C to 27°C, but capable of reaching significantly higher temperatures. Winters (December-February) are cold and snowy, with average temperatures ranging from -6°C to 2°C. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer transitional weather, pleasant but prone to some showers. Spring typically sees average temperatures ranging from 6°C to 16°C, while Autumn ranges from 10°C to 19°C. During the warmer months, you will find that the city has high humidity, while winter months tend to be dry, with occasional extreme weather events such as thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes during the warmer months.

Auckland has two major international airports currently operating and serving commercial flights: Auckland Airport and Ardmore Airport.

Auckland Airport

Auckland Airport is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand. It is a major international hub with many airlines offering flights to various destinations worldwide. The airport is modern and well-equipped with multiple terminals and various services for passengers. It opened in 1966 and has recently undergone several renovations to accommodate the growing number of passengers.

Ardmore Airport

Ardmore Airport is a smaller airport mostly used for domestic flights and general aviation. While it does have some commercial flights, it is not as large or busy as Auckland Airport. This airport has a rich history dating back to the 1930s, originally designed as a seaplane base.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• United Airlines
• American Airlines

Chicago has two major international airports: Chicago O'Hare International Airport and Chicago Midway International Airport.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

O'Hare is one of the busiest airports globally, serving many domestic and international destinations. A modern airport, it opened in 1943 and features multiple terminals. It has undergone significant improvements over the years. It's easily accessible via public transport such as the CTA Blue Line train, numerous taxi and ride-sharing services, and car rentals available at the airport.

Chicago Midway International Airport

Midway is smaller than O'Hare but still serves a considerable number of domestic and some international flights. It too opened in 1927 and has recently undergone renovations. Midway offers convenient access to downtown Chicago through the CTA Orange Line train, taxis, ride-sharing services, and car hire options.

Chicago is a vibrant city with endless possibilities for exploration. From iconic buildings to stunning parks, the city will certainly captivate you.

• Visit Millennium Park: Explore this beautiful urban park, home to Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden.
• Explore Navy Pier: Enjoy the rides, restaurants, and stunning views of the city skyline from this historic pier.
• See a show in the Theatre District: Catch a Broadway show or a performance at one of the many theatres.