Tauranga, nestled in the stunning Bay of Plenty region, offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant city life. Its picturesque harbour, stunning beaches, and rich Māori history draw travellers from around the globe. The city is renowned for its outdoor adventures, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring the beautiful Mount Maunganui. For a taste of local culture, visitors can explore the city's art galleries, museums, and thriving culinary scene. The average direct flight time from Invercargill to Tauranga is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, although this can vary based on weather conditions and aircraft type. Air New Zealand and Sounds Air are two airlines that commonly offer direct flights between these two cities, with varying frequencies depending on the season and demand. There are generally multiple flights per day, making this route convenient. For budget-conscious travellers, it is usually more cost-effective to book flights several weeks or months in advance, particularly avoiding peak season travel during the summer school holidays, December to February. These months see the greatest influx of tourists, leading to higher prices and more competition for accommodation. Alternatively, spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds and better deals on flights. If you are looking for alternative flight paths, you might have to include a layover in Auckland or Wellington. However, this would increase your total travel time significantly.

Tauranga enjoys a pleasant, temperate climate throughout the year. Summers (December to February) are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, though humidity can be high. Winters (June to August) are mild, with average temperatures between 10°C and 15°C. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal times to visit if you wish to avoid extreme weather. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, although the period between June and September has the greatest chance of rainy days. Extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones are rare.

Invercargill has one major airport that serves commercial flights: Invercargill Airport.

Invercargill Airport

Invercargill Airport (IVC) is a small, modern airport serving mainly domestic flights. It has a single terminal and offers convenient access to the city centre. Although it doesn't have a large number of airlines or flights compared to major international hubs, it provides essential connectivity within New Zealand.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Sounds Air
• Fly My Sky

Tauranga has one main airport serving commercial flights: Tauranga Airport.

Tauranga Airport

Tauranga Airport (TRU) is a relatively small airport located a short distance from the city centre. It primarily handles domestic flights, offering a convenient gateway to explore the Bay of Plenty region. Getting to the city centre is straightforward. A regular bus service connects the airport to the city. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal for a quick and convenient transfer. Car rental services are also available at the airport for those who prefer exploring independently.

Tauranga offers a diverse range of activities to suit every traveller. From exploring its beautiful beaches to immersing yourself in its rich culture, there's something for everyone.

• Mount Maunganui Summit Hike: Climb to the summit of Mount Maunganui for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, harbour, and surrounding areas. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for most fitness levels.
• Explore the Tauranga Waterfront: Stroll along the vibrant waterfront, enjoying the stunning harbour views, visiting the local shops, and trying some of the delicious restaurants and cafes.
• Visit the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum: Discover the fascinating history and culture of the region through interactive exhibits and displays. The museum offers a rich learning experience for all ages.