Planning a trip from Marseille to Auckland is exciting! Auckland, nestled in the heart of New Zealand, is a city brimming with cultural experiences, historical sites, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From its iconic Sky Tower offering panoramic views to its rich Māori heritage reflected in vibrant arts and traditions, Auckland attracts travellers seeking adventure and relaxation. Its stunning volcanic cones, picturesque harbours, and proximity to wine regions and pristine beaches add to its allure. Whether you're interested in exploring bustling city life or embarking on outdoor adventures, Auckland caters to every traveller's needs.

Direct flights from Marseille to Auckland are not usually available, meaning you'll need at least one stopover. The flight duration varies greatly depending on your chosen route and airline; expect a total travel time of around 24-30 hours including layover time. Airlines such as Air France and Qantas frequently offer flights with stopovers, typically in cities such as Paris, Dubai, or Singapore. The frequency of flights can vary; usually several flights per week are available with various airlines. This is an important consideration when planning your budget-friendly trip, as the best flight deals may be found by carefully considering flight connections and layovers.

To find the cheapest flights, consider booking your flights several months in advance, ideally between three to six months before your departure date. This is especially true during peak season. Booking outside of school holidays and peak travel periods, typically July-August, will help secure better deals. The best months to fly and find the best deals are typically between March and May and September and October, during the shoulder seasons. It is worth noting, however, that airfare prices are subject to many factors including economic conditions, seasonal changes and flight availability, so it is always best to compare options with your preferred online travel agency.

Auckland's peak season runs from December to February, coinciding with the summer months. You can expect higher prices and more tourists during this time. The off-season, from April to June, will be quieter and offer better chances for budget-friendly travel, and accommodation will be cheaper. The weather will be milder in the shoulder seasons (March-May & September-November) offering pleasant temperatures without the excessive crowds and high prices of peak season. Remember, flexible travel dates and considering alternative flight paths can lead to significant savings.

Auckland enjoys a temperate, oceanic climate. Summers (December to February) are warm and sunny, with average temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. Winters (June to August) are mild and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 16°C. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures and sunshine, making them ideal times to visit. Auckland rarely experiences extreme weather events, but occasional rain showers are common throughout the year. Humidity is generally moderate, but can increase during summer months.

Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is the main airport serving the city of Marseille. There are a number of other airports in the region, but this one is the only one that serves commercial flights.

Marseille Provence Airport (MRS)

Marseille Provence Airport, opened in 1922, is an international airport serving the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France. It's a busy hub handling millions of passengers annually and accommodating numerous airlines serving a variety of destinations around the world. It underwent significant renovations in recent years.

Main airlines for this route

• Air France
• Qantas
• Emirates

Auckland has two main airports: Auckland Airport (AKL) and Ardmore Airport (ACM). Both serve commercial flights but Auckland Airport is the major international hub.

Auckland Airport (AKL)

Auckland Airport (AKL), opened in 1966, is New Zealand's largest airport, handling numerous international and domestic flights daily. It features two terminals and hosts several hundred airlines. It is a modern facility with many amenities for passengers. Getting to the city centre is easy. Public transport options include a frequent and convenient airport bus service and a train. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available outside the terminals, offering a direct route to your destination. Renting a car is also a practical option for exploring the region independently.

Auckland offers a fantastic mix of city exploration and natural wonders. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started on planning your trip.

• Explore the Auckland Domain: Discover this historic park with its stunning views, walking trails, and the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
• Visit Waiheke Island: Take a ferry to Waiheke Island and enjoy its stunning beaches, vineyards, and art galleries. Consider a wine tour and sample the local produce.
• Climb Mount Eden: Hike up Mount Eden for panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanic landscape. Enjoy the beauty of the area and take many photos to remember your visit.