London, a global capital renowned for its cultural richness, historical significance, and captivating blend of modern and traditional, beckons travellers from around the world. Its iconic landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and the Houses of Parliament, stand as testaments to its glorious past. Meanwhile, its vibrant modern art scene, bustling markets, and trendy neighbourhoods offer exciting contemporary experiences. The city's diverse culinary landscape, green spaces like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, and world-class museums and galleries cater to every interest. From exploring ancient castles to indulging in cutting-edge theatre, London offers a diverse tapestry of experiences.

A direct flight from Auckland to London typically takes around 22 hours, although this can vary depending on weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific flight path. Airlines such as Air New Zealand and Qantas offer direct flights, with varying frequencies throughout the week, sometimes daily or several times a week. For budget-conscious travellers, it's worth considering indirect flights with layover cities such as Singapore, Dubai, or Los Angeles, which may offer cheaper options, although total travel time increases considerably. Planning ahead and booking your flights during the off-season – typically between November and March – will usually result in the best deals on both airfares and accommodation. The busiest time to visit is during the summer months (June-August) and around major holidays, when prices tend to be higher. To avoid peak season crowds and high prices, consider travelling during the quieter months of September to November or March to May.

London's climate is temperate, with mild winters and cool summers. Summer temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C, while winters average between 2°C and 7°C. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for sightseeing. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but is most likely during spring and autumn. The city rarely experiences extreme weather events.

Auckland has two main airports that serve commercial flights: Auckland Airport and Ardmore Airport. Auckland Airport is the primary international airport, a large and modern facility that handles millions of passengers annually, while Ardmore Airport is smaller, focusing mostly on domestic flights.

Auckland Airport

Opened in 1966, Auckland Airport is New Zealand's largest airport. It's a modern facility that has recently undergone renovations, and it is equipped with multiple terminals, catering for a large number of airlines and millions of passengers every year. It offers a full range of facilities for travellers and has a very important role in connecting New Zealand to the world.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Emirates

London has five major airports serving international and domestic flights: Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and City Airport. These airports vary in size and offer diverse connections across the globe.

Heathrow Airport

Heathrow, one of the busiest airports globally, offers extensive public transport links to central London. The Piccadilly line connects directly to central London. Taxis and private car services are readily available outside the terminals.

Gatwick Airport

Gatwick Airport is another significant airport, and like Heathrow, provides excellent transport links. The Gatwick Express train is the fastest way to reach the city centre. Taxis and car rental facilities are also provided.

Luton Airport

Luton Airport, a smaller airport located further from the city centre, still provides good public transport links, with trains and buses offering connections. Taxis and other private hire options are also available.

London, a city brimming with history and culture, offers countless attractions. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there's something for every visitor.

• Visit Buckingham Palace: Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore the State Rooms.
• Explore the Tower of London: Discover its fascinating history, see the Crown Jewels, and learn about its infamous prisoners.
• See a West End Show: Experience the magic of London's world-renowned theatre scene.