Shenyang, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern dynamism. Discover the grandeur of the Mukden Palace, the former imperial palace of the Qing Dynasty, and explore the serene beauty of Beiling Park, the final resting place of Qing emperors. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local life at Zhongjie, a bustling street lined with shops and eateries. Shenyang's rich heritage, stunning architecture, and captivating atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for travellers.

The average direct flight time from Auckland to Shenyang is approximately 12 hours, although this can vary depending on weather conditions and the specific flight path. Several major airlines offer this route, including Air New Zealand and China Southern Airlines. These airlines typically offer a few flights per week, and while there are usually no direct flights, you might need to consider connecting flights through major hubs to get the best deal. For example, you could consider a stopover in a major city like Hong Kong. This can increase your total travel time but might also offer cheaper alternatives.

To secure the best flight deals, booking your flights during the off-peak months (November to March) is usually recommended. However, planning your flight reservation several months in advance is often advisable to lock in cost-effective rates. Airfares usually rise significantly closer to your departure date and during the peak season (April to October) when the city experiences a high influx of tourists. Shenyang is particularly busy during the summer months (June to August) and during significant festivals and events, so keeping this in mind and avoiding travelling at these times will give you the cheapest option.

Shenyang experiences a temperate semi-humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with average highs around 29°C in July, while winters are long, cold and dry, with average lows around -8.5°C in January. Spring and autumn are short transitional seasons with fluctuating temperatures. Precipitation is concentrated mainly in spring and summer. Extreme weather events such as heavy snowfall in winter and occasional typhoons in late summer are possible. For pleasant weather and sightseeing, the best time to visit is from April to October.

Auckland has two main airports that operate commercial flights: Auckland Airport and Ardmore Airport.

Auckland Airport

Auckland Airport is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, serving as a major international hub. It features multiple terminals, numerous airlines, and countless amenities. It opened in 1966 and has been renovated several times throughout its history.

Ardmore Airport

Ardmore Airport is a smaller airport primarily serving domestic flights and general aviation. It boasts a rich history and plays a significant role in the local aviation community.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• China Southern Airlines
• Cathay Pacific

Shenyang Taoxian International Airport is the primary airport serving Shenyang, offering both domestic and international connections. There are other smaller airports in the region but this is the only one currently operational and serving commercial flights.

Shenyang Taoxian International Airport

Shenyang Taoxian International Airport is a modern facility equipped to handle a large volume of passengers. It's located approximately 26 km from the city centre. Getting to the city centre from the airport is easy. The airport has a well-connected public transport system which includes buses and metro lines. Taxis are readily available outside the arrival terminal. Alternatively, you can hire a car and self-drive.

Shenyang offers a diverse range of attractions for every type of traveller. Its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural landscapes provide ample opportunity for exploration and unforgettable experiences.

• Mukden Palace: Explore the former imperial palace of the Qing Dynasty, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing stunning architecture and history.
• Beiling Park: Discover this expansive park with serene lakes, ancient gardens, and the Zhaoling Mausoleum, the final resting place of Qing Emperors.
• Liaoning Provincial Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region through its vast collection of artefacts.