Planning a trip from Brisbane to Invercargill? Invercargill, nestled in the deep south of New Zealand's South Island, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, dramatic natural landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere that attracts travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Its rich history, stunning scenery, and vibrant local culture make it a worthwhile destination. The fastest way to reach this captivating city is by air, with several options available.

Flights from Brisbane to Invercargill are generally not direct, meaning you will have at least one stopover. The flight duration varies depending on the route chosen and the duration of any layovers, but expect a total travel time of between 8 and 12 hours or more. Airlines offering flights often include Air New Zealand and Qantas, with varying flight frequencies throughout the week. While daily direct flights are less common on this particular route, you can often find convenient connections through major hubs like Auckland, or potentially Sydney, depending on flight availability at the time of your booking.

To find the cheapest flights, consider booking during the off-peak seasons, typically between April and October, excluding the school holidays. Booking several weeks or even months ahead of your travel dates often leads to the best deals. Peak season, which often coincides with the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere (December to February), will naturally increase airfare prices, as it is the warmest time to visit Invercargill. It is also a popular time due to events and local attractions.

While it is not possible to give you an exact flight duration as that changes often, you can expect the total travel time to be more than 8 hours, considering stopovers and flight durations. The actual time will depend on the chosen flight path and connection times.

Invercargill enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, meaning it experiences relatively mild temperatures year-round. Summers (December to February) are the warmest, with average highs around 14°C (57°F), though even then, you should be prepared for cooler days and occasional showers. Winters (June to August) are the coldest, averaging around 5°C (41°F), with the occasional frost. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures and a mix of sunshine and rain. Invercargill is known for its changeable weather, so packing layers is always recommended, regardless of the season. Rainfall is relatively consistent throughout the year.

Brisbane is served by two major airports currently in operation: Brisbane Airport (BNE) and Archerfield Airport (ACF).

Brisbane Airport (BNE)

Brisbane Airport is an international airport, meaning it handles both domestic and international flights. It is one of Australia's busiest airports, with a large number of airlines, flights, and passengers. The airport is modern and offers a wide range of facilities. Opened in 1939, it has undergone significant renovations over the years. This airport is a large international hub and is situated 13km from the city center.

Archerfield Airport (ACF)

Archerfield Airport is primarily a domestic airport. It is smaller than Brisbane Airport, but it still handles a significant number of flights, primarily catering to general aviation, and is closer to the city.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Jetstar

Invercargill is served by one major airport, Invercargill Airport (IVC).

Invercargill Airport (IVC)

Invercargill Airport is a small, but fully operational airport located just 1.6 km west of Invercargill's city centre. The airport opened in 1938 and has a modern terminal which opened in 2016. It offers daily flights to and from other New Zealand cities and international charter flights. The airport serves as an alternate destination for Queenstown Airport during inclement weather.

Getting to the city centre from Invercargill Airport is straightforward. The airport is a short distance from the city and taxis are readily available. Public transport options may be limited. You could also choose to hire a car for more flexibility.

Invercargill offers a surprisingly diverse range of attractions for visitors. Its blend of heritage, nature, and local experiences make for an enjoyable holiday. Here are a few suggestions for your itinerary.

• Classic Motorcycle Mecca: Explore a vast collection of motorcycles, providing a fascinating insight into motorcycling history.
• Bill Richardson Transport World: Discover a captivating display of vintage vehicles, showcasing the evolution of transportation.
• Queen's Park: Relax in this beautiful park, enjoying the scenic surroundings and historical features.