Book cheap flights from Christchurch to Cairns

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Discover the cheapest flights from Christchurch to Cairns
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The prices shown on this page were available within the last 20 days for the specified periods and should not be considered the final price offered. Please note that availability and prices are subject to change.

Cheapest time to fly from Christchurch to Cairns

If you’re planning to fly this route soon, keep in mind that the lowest fares are usually available at the end of April. Take advantage of this period to save on your flight tickets and make the most of your trip. Please note that prices may change after your search.
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week: 27 Apr - 3 May
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Airlines that fly from Christchurch to Cairns

Currency and cost comparison

TrainLocal, one-way ticket
95%Trains are 95% more expensive in Cairns than in Christchurch.
Christchurch$3.00
Cairns$5.86
MealMid-priced restaurant
14%A meal in Cairns is 14% cheaper than a meal in Christchurch.
Christchurch$30.00
Cairns$25.78
TaxiStandard daytime start rate
4%A taxi fare in Cairns is 4% cheaper than in Christchurch.
Christchurch$4.50
Cairns$4.34
CoffeeRegular cappuccino
26%Coffee is 26% more expensive in Cairns than in Christchurch.
Christchurch$5.79
Cairns$7.32
Exchange rate
1 NZD = 0.86 AUD
1 AUD = 1.18 NZD
Last checked on Tue, 24/02
Distance: 3891 kms
Christchurch airports
Christchurch International Airport (CHC)How far from city centre: 10 kms
Cairns airports
Cairns International Airport (CNS)How far from city centre: 5 kms

Guide to flying from Christchurch to Cairns: what to expect

Cairns offers a gateway to some of Australia's most remarkable natural wonders and a rich Indigenous heritage. From the world's largest coral reef system to ancient rainforests, this Queensland city draws travellers eager to explore its unique landscapes and vibrant local culture. Discover a blend of outdoor adventure and insightful experiences that connect you with the region's deep history and stunning biodiversity.

Flying from Christchurch to Cairns takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes on a direct flight. Various airlines operate this route, providing options for your journey. For the most comfortable travel, consider visiting Cairns during its dry season, from May to October. This period offers cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall, ideal for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. You can often find competitive airfares outside of the peak school holiday periods. Booking your flights in advance typically secures better prices and a wider selection of departure times.

Airports in Christchurch

Planning your trip from Christchurch to Cairns means departing from Christchurch's primary international gateway. This airport offers a range of services for travellers heading across the Tasman.

Christchurch Airport (CHC)

Christchurch Airport serves as the main international and domestic air travel hub for the South Island. Located in Harewood, approximately 12 kilometres north-west of the city centre, the airport features a single, integrated terminal building. This facility consolidates check-in, security, and gates for both international and domestic flights, streamlining the travel process. Passengers can find numerous retail outlets, dining options, and lounges within the terminal before boarding their flight to Australia. The airport also provides various parking solutions, from short-term to long-stay, conveniently accessible to the terminal.

Airports in Cairns

When flying from Christchurch, you will arrive at Cairns Airport. This is the main gateway for air travel to tropical North Queensland.

Cairns Airport (CNS)

Cairns Airport serves as a crucial hub for northern Australia, facilitating both domestic and international connections. This facility features two terminals: Terminal 1 handles international arrivals and departures, while Terminal 2 manages domestic services. The terminals are situated within walking distance of each other, making transfers straightforward. Regular shuttle services and taxi ranks are readily available outside the arrivals areas to transport passengers to the city centre or surrounding regions. The airport infrastructure supports a range of services for travellers, including car rental agencies located conveniently within the terminal precinct.

Book your flights from Christchurch to Cairns at the best price

Imagine the warm, humid air of the tropics on your skin, or the rustling of palm trees swaying in a gentle breeze. Cairns offers a gateway to Australia's natural wonders, from ancient rainforests to the vibrant marine life of the Great Barrier Reef. Ready to discover this northern Queensland gem?

With eDreams, you can effortlessly compare flights from a wide range of airlines, ensuring you find the best option for your journey from Christchurch. Access exclusive discounts with an eDreams Prime subscription, or bundle your flight and hotel for even greater savings. Start planning your escape to Cairns today and explore the incredible experiences that await.

Frequently asked questions about flights from Christchurch to Cairns

Is it safe to travel from Christchurch to Cairns during the Covid-19 situation?
At eDreams we do our best to ensure that your travel plans won't be affected by restrictions or possible cancellations that Australia may apply. Using the flexible ticket gurantee you can decide if you rather rebook or get a refund!
For flights from Christchurch to Cairns, how can I find the cheapest price?
The cheapest price for a flight from Christchurch to Cairns is 197$. At eDreams we use different machine learned based methodologies to find our costumers the best option available, considering airline combinations, stopovers and direct flights as well as different criteria for inbound and outbound journeys.
Is Cairns more expensive than Christchurch to visit?
Looking at cab fares, a ride in Cairns costs an average of 4.34 NZD , 4% cheaper than Christchurch, with a fare of 4.50 NZD,
while train tickets cost 95% more at Cairns: $ 5.86 NZD versus $ 3.00 NZD at Christchurch.
Comparing the price of a meal, they range from 25.78 NZD euros in Cairns, 14% less than the 30.00 NZD euros in Christchurch.
The price of the coffee is around 26% more expensive in Cairns, with an average of 7.32 NZD , while in Christchurch the coffee costs 5.79 NZD.
How long does the flight from Christchurch to Cairns take?
Flight length from Christchurch to Cairns is around 5 h and 35 m on average, at an average distance of 3,891.06 km, for flights for the route (which may have 1 or more stops in other cities in between).

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