Planning a trip from Christchurch, New Zealand, to Houston, Texas? Houston, a vibrant hub in the southern United States, offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, historical sites and natural beauty. Its iconic Space Center Houston draws space enthusiasts from around the globe, while its thriving arts scene and diverse culinary offerings appeal to a wider audience. The city's rich history is woven into its architecture and neighbourhoods, creating a tapestry waiting to be explored. Whether you're interested in exploring NASA's achievements, sampling Tex-Mex cuisine, enjoying the city's beautiful parks or discovering its unique museums, Houston has something to offer every traveller. The fastest way to reach Houston from Christchurch involves a long-haul flight, typically requiring one or more stops. This travel time varies widely.

Flight duration: Direct flights, when available, take approximately 20 hours on average. However, factors like wind conditions and the aircraft type can influence this duration. The actual flight time is highly dependent on the routing and number of stops.

Flight frequency & airlines: While no direct flights currently operate between these two cities, major airlines often offer routes with convenient layovers. Airlines such as Air New Zealand and United Airlines regularly serve these destinations, though their flight frequencies vary depending on the season. The flight frequency is high during the peak seasons, but you may only find one flight per week during low seasons.

Alternative routes & stopover cities: Most travellers opt for flights with one or two layovers through popular hubs such as Los Angeles, Dallas, or Auckland. Adding layovers increases total travel time significantly. If you choose flights with layovers, you should expect to arrive 24 hours later than you would with a direct flight. A direct flight from Christchurch to Houston would take approximately 20 hours.

Best time to book: To secure the cheapest flights, book your tickets during the off-peak season between May and August. Booking ahead of time, especially during the peak seasons from October to April, ensures a wider selection of flights, often at better prices. Flexibility with travel dates generally improves your chances of finding better deals. Remember, planning ahead and checking for sales and special offers available on eDreams can greatly contribute to cost-effective travel.

Peak & off-peak travel: The busiest times to visit Houston are during spring and autumn, due to pleasant weather and a packed events calendar. Summer, while hot and humid, sees reduced tourist numbers. The winter months are the least crowded, but note that weather conditions can be unpredictable. Local events and the timing of school holidays can affect flight prices and availability. Consider travelling during shoulder seasons for a good balance of favourable weather and lower prices.

Houston's climate is characterised by hot, humid summers and mild winters. Summer (June to August) sees temperatures regularly exceeding 32°C, with high humidity levels. Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 27°C. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities. Be aware of the occasional hurricane during the late summer and autumn months.

Christchurch has one major airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Christchurch Airport.

Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport (CHC) is the main international airport serving Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region. Opened in 1962, it's a modern facility that has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades throughout the years. The airport handles a significant number of domestic and international flights, with numerous major airlines operating from the airport. The airport features modern terminals with various passenger amenities, such as restaurants, shops and lounges. It is an international airport which makes it possible to travel from different countries to New Zealand. Christchurch Airport is also home to many airlines and offers many flights each day.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• United Airlines
• Qantas

Houston has several airports, but two are major international airports serving the city: George Bush Intercontinental Airport and William P. Hobby Airport.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

IAH is a large international airport, a major hub for United Airlines. Opened in 1969, it handles millions of passengers annually and boasts numerous shops, restaurants and services. To reach the city centre from IAH, you can use the airport's shuttle service that connects to the city centre and other public transit systems. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available outside the terminals. There are also some bus services that travel to different places in the city.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

HOU is a smaller airport, primarily serving Southwest Airlines and other domestic carriers. Opened in 1927 and significantly expanded over the years, it offers a more convenient location for travellers heading to the southern part of the city. Public transport options such as buses and trains connect HOU to the city centre and other destinations. Taxis and ride-sharing services also operate from this airport. It also provides transport to nearby stations.

Houston, a diverse and dynamic city, offers a wide array of attractions and activities for visitors. From its renowned museums and parks to its vibrant culinary scene, Houston has something for everyone.

• Space Center Houston: Explore the history of space exploration at this world-class attraction, a must-visit for space enthusiasts of all ages.
• Museum District: Discover world-class museums focusing on art, science, and natural history, housed in a captivating district.
• Hermann Park: Enjoy the beauty of nature at this sprawling urban park, offering walking trails, a botanical garden, and a zoo.