Embark on a journey from Hokitika, New Zealand, to the captivating island of Bali, Indonesia, a destination renowned for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant local experiences. Denpasar, Bali's capital, offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern amenities. You'll find iconic landmarks, historic temples, stunning beaches, and a thriving arts scene, all contributing to its allure for travellers from around the globe.

The average direct flight duration from Hokitika to Denpasar is approximately 10 hours. However, this can vary due to factors such as weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific airline's route. Unfortunately, direct flights from Hokitika to Denpasar are currently unavailable, so you'll need to consider flights with at least one stopover.

While no airlines offer direct routes, several major airlines operate flights with layovers from nearby airports like Christchurch or Queenstown. Common layover hubs include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or perhaps even Sydney. A layover significantly increases the overall travel time. If you fly from Christchurch, you could expect an overall journey time upwards of 20 hours or more. It's wise to factor in potential delays caused by connecting flights.

The ideal months for budget-friendly travel to Denpasar are typically October to March, excluding the holiday period in December. During these months, airfares tend to be lower. However, this period also corresponds to Bali's rainy season. Booking your flights several weeks to two months in advance offers the best chance of securing the most cost-effective deals and availability.

Bali's peak tourist season occurs from July to August when many people from the southern hemisphere travel seeking warmer weather. The destination is less busy, with the most pleasant weather, during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October, but flight prices are higher then.

Denpasar enjoys a tropical climate, meaning consistently warm temperatures year-round. However, there are distinct wet and dry seasons that impact the best time to visit. The dry season runs from April to October, characterized by lower humidity, ample sunshine (averaging around 9 hours of sunshine daily) and temperatures consistently ranging between 26°C and 29°C. The wet season, spanning from November to March, experiences higher humidity and rainfall although showers are often brief. Temperatures during the wet season still average between 27-29°C.

Hokitika has one currently operating airport that serves commercial flights: Hokitika Airport.

Hokitika Airport

Hokitika Airport (HKK), opened in 1951, is a small airport serving the West Coast region of New Zealand. It's a domestic airport with a single terminal and two tarmac gates. The airport primarily serves Air New Zealand, which operates numerous flights daily connecting Hokitika to Christchurch. It's known for its scenic beauty, with flights often offering stunning views of the Southern Alps and surrounding areas.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand

Denpasar has one major airport that serves international and domestic flights: I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.

I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS)

I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport, is Bali's main airport. A modern facility, it's a significant hub for numerous international and domestic airlines, handling millions of passengers annually. The airport boasts multiple terminals and various amenities for passengers. The airport is about 13km from the city centre.

Reaching Denpasar city centre from the airport is convenient. The airport offers various transportation options: Taxis and ride-hailing services are readily available at the airport. Public buses provide an affordable option but may take longer than taxis or ride-hailing services. Rental car companies also operate within the airport.

Denpasar, the cultural heart of Bali, is a city rich in history and tradition. Beyond the beautiful beaches, Denpasar offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit various interests.

• Visit the Bajra Sandhi Monument: This iconic monument provides a stunning visual record of Balinese history, encompassing the island's rich culture and heritage from ancient times through to Indonesia's independence. The monument is an impressive structure, and provides great photo opportunities.
• Explore the Bali Museum: Delve into Balinese art and culture at the Bali Museum, showcasing an impressive collection of traditional artefacts, sculptures, and textiles. The museum gives an enriching insight into the island's vibrant cultural history.
• Experience a traditional Balinese dance performance: Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Balinese dance with a captivating performance at the Werdhi Budaya Art Centre. Witness the grace, skill, and cultural significance of these traditional performances.