Planning a trip from Dublin to Wellington offers a fantastic opportunity to explore a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Wellington, New Zealand's capital, is renowned for its stunning harbour, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to breathtaking landscapes. It's a destination that attracts travellers from all over the world, whether they're interested in exploring iconic landmarks, delving into its rich heritage, experiencing the stunning scenic landscapes, or enjoying the city's lively local culture. The fastest way to reach Wellington from Dublin is by air, a journey that typically involves a long-haul flight.

Direct flights from Dublin to Wellington are generally offered by two major airlines, Air New Zealand and Qantas, but the frequency varies between daily and weekly flights, depending on the season. Most travellers will need to take a connecting flight. While Air New Zealand provides relatively frequent direct flights, these are often more expensive compared to flights with a stopover. If you are looking for cost-effective options, you may prefer choosing flights with one or two layovers at convenient hubs like Singapore, Dubai, or Los Angeles. This might increase the total journey time, but you'll find the best deals on these routes, especially during the off-season.

For budget-friendly travel, the ideal months to fly are typically April to September, avoiding the peak season (December to February). Booking your flight at least 2-3 months in advance can provide better deals. However, last-minute flight deals can pop up unexpectedly as airlines try to fill empty seats. Naturally, airfare trends fluctuate according to seasonal demand. Peak travel season aligns with the summer months in New Zealand (December to February), making it the busiest time to visit, with higher prices and more crowded tourist attractions. If you prefer quieter locations and potentially lower costs, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or during the off-peak winter months (June to August).

Wellington's weather is known for its variability. Summers (December to February) are mild, with average highs around 20°C, but can be windy. Autumn (March to May) offers pleasant temperatures, averaging between 15°C and 8°C. Winters (June to August) are traditionally cold and windy, with temperatures frequently below 8°C. Spring (September to November) experiences a mix of weather, with temperatures rising to around 15°C, and can be windy and rainy. The warmest and sunniest time is summer, however it is often windy. For more reliable weather, spring and autumn are better times to visit.

Dublin has two main airports that operate commercial flights: Dublin Airport and Ireland West Airport Knock.

Dublin Airport

Dublin Airport is the largest airport in Ireland, serving numerous international and domestic destinations. Opened in 1940, it has undergone many renovations to enhance its facilities. It's a major hub for several airlines and processes millions of passengers yearly. It has two terminals.

Ireland West Airport Knock

Ireland West Airport Knock, located in County Mayo, serves mainly regional and some international flights. It has modern facilities and offers various amenities for passengers. It is significantly smaller than Dublin Airport and handles fewer flights and passengers annually.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Lufthansa

Wellington has one major airport that operates international and domestic flights: Wellington Airport.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport is the primary airport serving Wellington. It is a modern facility with a single terminal, conveniently located close to the city centre. It provides various amenities to passengers. Several local and international airlines operate flights from here. Getting to the city centre is easy with public transportation, including buses and trains, available directly from the airport. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available, offering a convenient alternative. You can also rent a car from the airport's rental counters for greater flexibility during your stay.

Wellington is a vibrant city with a thriving arts and culture scene, stunning natural attractions, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

• Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand: Explore New Zealand's history, art, and culture in this world-class museum.
• Wellington Botanic Garden: Wander through stunning gardens, offering panoramic views of the city and harbour.
• Zealandia Ecosanctuary: Discover unique native New Zealand flora and fauna in this fully fenced urban wildlife sanctuary.