Embark on a journey from Johannesburg, South Africa, to Auckland, New Zealand, a city renowned for its unique blend of cultural richness, historical significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. Auckland captivates travellers with its iconic landmarks, vibrant local experiences, and stunning landscapes. The fastest way to reach Auckland from Johannesburg is by direct flight, although it's a long haul. Flight duration averages around 17 hours, but this can vary due to factors such as weather conditions and tailwinds or headwinds. Several major airlines offer direct routes; however, you should check the flight frequency directly with your chosen airline through eDreams. For budget-friendly options, you can explore alternative flight paths with layovers, possibly in Dubai or Singapore. This might impact overall travel time, but it can also unlock cheaper airfares. The ideal months for budget travellers to fly are typically during the shoulder seasons—April-May or September-October—when airfares often drop. The best time to book is generally 2-3 months in advance, but you can also snag great last-minute deals if you're flexible with your dates. Auckland experiences peak tourist seasons during summer (December to February) and school holidays, so expect higher prices and more crowds. The quietest times are during autumn and spring, offering a balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. In short, there are excellent opportunities to make your trip affordable by booking carefully and being open to exploring different travel options.

Auckland enjoys a temperate maritime climate with distinct seasons. Summer (December-February) brings warm, sunny days with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. Winter (June-August) is mild, with average temperatures around 8°C to 14°C. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) offer pleasant temperatures and a mix of sunshine and rain. Rainfall is fairly evenly spread throughout the year, and humidity levels are generally moderate. Extreme weather events are rare but include occasional strong winds and heavy downpours. The transition between seasons is gradual.

Johannesburg has two main airports currently operational: OR Tambo International Airport and Lanseria International Airport.

OR Tambo International Airport

OR Tambo International Airport, opened in 1952, is the primary airport serving Johannesburg, and is one of the busiest airports in Africa. It handles a massive volume of international and domestic flights and passengers annually, and is a major hub for various airlines.

Lanseria International Airport

Lanseria International Airport, opened in 1990, is smaller than OR Tambo, focusing mainly on domestic flights and offering a more convenient alternative for travellers to certain areas. It is considered modern and caters to a smaller number of passengers.

Main airlines for this route

• Emirates
• Qatar Airways
• Singapore Airlines

Auckland has two main operational airports: Auckland Airport and Ardmore Airport.

Auckland Airport

Auckland Airport is New Zealand's largest airport, opened in 1966, serving both international and domestic flights. It has multiple terminals, modern facilities, and handles many airlines and a large number of passengers. It underwent recent renovations, enhancing passenger experience and capacity. You can access the city centre using public transportation like the AirportLink bus, taxis, or rental cars.

Ardmore Airport

Ardmore Airport, opened in the 1930s, is smaller and primarily serves general aviation, domestic flights, and is not a major hub. It provides a quieter and potentially quicker alternative for those travelling to locations closer to the airport. Getting into the city requires using taxis or driving a private car.

Auckland, the City of Sails, offers a fantastic blend of urban excitement and natural wonders.

• Explore the Auckland Domain: Wander through Auckland's oldest park, visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, or enjoy panoramic city views from the hilltop.
• Visit the Sky Tower: Ascend Auckland's iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, harbour, and surrounding volcanic cones.
• Discover Waiheke Island: Take a ferry to Waiheke Island, known for its stunning beaches, vineyards, olive groves, and art galleries.