Embark on a captivating journey from Auckland to Wuxi, a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Wuxi, nestled in the heart of Jiangsu province, China, is renowned for its stunning Taihu Lake, classical gardens, and the iconic Lingshan Grand Buddha. Its blend of ancient traditions and modern vibrancy makes it an incredibly attractive destination for travellers seeking a unique cultural experience. The city boasts a wealth of historical sites, tranquil landscapes, and bustling markets offering a diverse range of experiences for every type of visitor. The fastest way to reach this enchanting city is by air.

Direct flights from Auckland to Wuxi are not commonly available, requiring a stopover. Major airlines such as Air New Zealand and Cathay Pacific frequently offer connecting flights. While flight frequency varies depending on the season and airline, you can typically find several flights per week, with common stopover cities including major hubs such as Hong Kong, Singapore, or even cities in Europe. These alternative flight paths can significantly impact overall journey time, increasing travel time by several hours depending on the layover duration and city.

To find the cheapest flights, consider booking during the shoulder seasons – spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These ideal months for budget travellers offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. The best time to book your flight is generally 2-3 months in advance to secure the best deals, although last-minute deals might appear sometimes. Seasonal airfare trends show increased prices during peak tourist seasons, like summer holidays and Chinese New Year, so plan your trip accordingly.

Wuxi experiences peak tourist seasons during spring and autumn when the weather is favourable. The summer months (June to August) are the hottest and often bring heavy rainfall and high humidity, making it a less popular time to visit. Similarly, winter (December to February) can be cold and wet, so the quietest time to visit would likely be during these months. However, many attractions remain open year-round. Planning your trip outside the peak seasons can significantly increase your chances of finding cheaper flight and accommodation options.

Wuxi enjoys a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June-August) are hot and humid, with temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C and high humidity levels. Winters (December-February) are relatively mild compared to other parts of China, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 7°C. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the most pleasant times to visit, offering moderate temperatures and comfortable humidity levels. Spring is characterized by blossoming flowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. While rainfall is distributed throughout the year, the heaviest precipitation occurs during the summer months. Extreme weather events are uncommon but occasional typhoons or heavy rainfall can occur during summer.

Auckland has two major international airports currently in operation: Auckland Airport (AKL) and Ardmore Airport (AKD).

Auckland Airport (AKL)

Auckland Airport is New Zealand's largest and busiest airport, serving both domestic and international flights. Opened in 1966, it has undergone many renovations and expansions to accommodate the growing number of passengers. It's a modern and busy hub for numerous airlines and boasts a range of facilities. The airport has two terminals, a large number of shops and restaurants. It handled millions of passengers in 2024.

Ardmore Airport (AKD)

Ardmore Airport is a smaller airport primarily focused on general aviation, but it also handles some commercial flights.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Cathay Pacific
• Singapore Airlines

Wuxi primarily operates through one major airport: Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX).

Sunan Shuofang International Airport (WUX)

Sunan Shuofang International Airport is the main airport serving Wuxi and the surrounding area. It's a relatively modern facility offering both domestic and international flights, although international flights are less frequent. The airport offers various amenities including shops, restaurants and lounges. Getting to the city centre is straightforward. Taxis are readily available outside the airport's arrivals hall, offering a convenient, albeit potentially more expensive, option. Public transport is also a possibility; buses regularly connect the airport to the city centre with many bus stops across Wuxi.

Wuxi offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you're interested in exploring ancient temples, strolling through tranquil gardens, or enjoying the panoramic views of Taihu Lake, Wuxi has something to offer.

• Lingshan Grand Buddha: Visit the magnificent 88-metre tall bronze statue of the Buddha, a symbol of Wuxi.
• Taihu Lake: Take a boat trip on Taihu Lake, China's third-largest freshwater lake, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Humble Administrator's Garden: Explore this classical Chinese garden, a masterpiece of landscape design and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.