Planning a trip from Frankfurt to Dunedin? You're in for a treat. Dunedin, nestled in the Otago region of New Zealand's South Island, is a city of striking contrasts, where Victorian architecture meets stunning natural landscapes. Discover its rich Scottish heritage reflected in its grand buildings and vibrant culture, explore its dramatic coastline, and encounter unique wildlife like yellow-eyed penguins and albatrosses. Dunedin's charm lies in its blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it an unforgettable destination. The fastest way to reach this captivating city is by air, and while there are no direct flights from Frankfurt, several airlines offer cost-effective connecting routes.

Flight duration: Expect a total journey time of around 24-30 hours, factoring in layovers. The actual time will vary depending on the airline, the chosen layover location, and any potential delays.

Flight frequency & airlines: While no airline offers direct flights on this route, many major airlines, such as Air New Zealand and Lufthansa, typically offer flights with connections through major hubs. These hubs often serve multiple flights daily or weekly, providing ample options for your travel plan. You'll almost certainly need a stopover.

Alternative routes & stopover cities: Common layover cities include Singapore, Auckland, or Sydney, depending on the airline and the specific flight. Layovers can significantly impact travel time; therefore, you might need to consider this factor when planning your trip.

Best time to book: Generally, booking your flights several months in advance can help you secure the best deals. Flying during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) might offer cheaper prices due to lower tourist demand. However, prices will fluctuate according to season and demand, so plan in advance for the best results.

Peak & off-peak travel: Summer (December to February) is Dunedin's peak season, when you should expect higher prices and more crowds. The off-season (May to September) offers a chance for a more tranquil experience, with fewer tourists and potential for budget-friendly accommodations.

Dunedin enjoys a temperate maritime climate, meaning mild summers and cool winters. Summer (December to February) brings pleasant temperatures ranging from 11°C to 17°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (March to May) offers sunny days with mild temperatures and minimal crowds. Winter (June to August) sees cooler temperatures, between 6°C and 10°C, perfect for enjoying Dunedin's indoor attractions, while spring (September to November) brings milder temperatures and blossoming flowers, creating a beautiful atmosphere.

Frankfurt boasts three airports currently in operation and serving commercial flights: Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Frankfurt Hahn Airport (HHN), and Frankfurt Egelsbach Airport (QEF).

Frankfurt Airport (FRA)

Frankfurt Airport is Germany's largest airport, a major international hub, opened on 8 July 1936. With two terminals and four runways, this airport is renowned for its efficient operations and comprehensive facilities. Serving millions of passengers annually, it’s a truly significant transport point.

Frankfurt Hahn Airport (HHN)

Frankfurt Hahn Airport, while smaller than Frankfurt Airport (FRA), serves as a significant secondary airport for the region. Although officially named Frankfurt-Hahn Airport, its location is some distance from the city, a fact to be aware of when planning your journey. It offers a more budget-friendly option for those who aren't travelling from or to the centre of Frankfurt.

Frankfurt Egelsbach Airport (QEF)

Frankfurt Egelsbach Airport, opened in 1955, is a smaller general aviation airport. It caters primarily to private and corporate flights and provides services for smaller aircraft.

Main airlines for this route

• Lufthansa
• Air New Zealand
• Singapore Airlines

Dunedin has one major airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Dunedin Airport (DUD).

Dunedin Airport (DUD)

Dunedin Airport is the primary airport serving the Otago region. It's a relatively smaller airport compared to larger international hubs, but offers easy access to the city centre. The airport is conveniently located a short distance from the city centre.

Getting to the city centre from the airport is straightforward. Public transport options include buses, while taxis and car rentals are also readily available. The journey to the city centre by bus or taxi takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. If renting a car, the drive is equally easy.

Dunedin offers a delightful mix of attractions for every visitor.

• Larnach Castle: Explore this stunning Victorian-era castle perched high on the Otago Peninsula, boasting beautiful gardens and rich history.
• Otago Peninsula: Embark on a wildlife cruise to encounter yellow-eyed penguins, albatrosses, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
• Dunedin Street Art Trail: Wander through the city's streets and discover a vibrant collection of murals and street art that showcase Dunedin's creative spirit.