Planning a trip from Nelson to Invercargill? You're in for a treat. Invercargill, situated in the stunning Southland region, offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural landscapes. It's a destination that captivates travellers with its rich history, iconic sites, and the vibrant local experiences available. Whether you're captivated by its historical architecture, drawn to the natural beauty of the surrounding area, or eager to explore its unique cultural offerings, Invercargill is a destination that provides something for everyone.

Direct flights between Nelson and Invercargill are readily available, providing a quick and convenient way to reach your destination. The average flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, this can vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and specific flight routes. Air New Zealand and Sounds Air are two major airlines that offer frequent direct flights. You can expect several flights daily during peak seasons, and while the frequency may vary throughout the week, there will still be plenty of options to choose from.

If you cannot find a direct flight for your desired dates or if the direct flight option is not cost-effective enough, consider alternative flight paths via connecting cities which may offer cheaper fares. These may include major hubs such as Auckland or Christchurch, depending on your preferred airline and overall travel duration. While adding a stopover increases the overall journey time, it could result in discovering another city and provide opportunities to save on your airfare. Consider this option if your travel dates are flexible.

For budget-conscious travellers, the ideal months for booking flights are generally the shoulder seasons, which run from September to November and March to May. By avoiding peak travel times such as the summer months (December to February), when prices are higher due to tourist demand, you are far more likely to obtain cost-effective options. Booking your flight well in advance is also a key step in obtaining the best deals.

Invercargill sees its highest tourist influx during the peak summer season, from December to February. This is when the weather is at its warmest and sunniest, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The city also hosts various events during this time. The quietest periods are generally the autumn and winter months, between March and May, and June and August. Bear in mind that this can affect flight prices.

Invercargill enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, meaning it experiences relatively mild temperatures year-round. However, there are distinct seasonal differences. Summers, from December to February, are mild, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 19°C. Expect occasional rain showers, and southerly winds. Winters, from June to August, are cool, with average temperatures between 4°C and 10°C. Expect more frequent rainfall, though snowfall is rare. Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures and moderate rainfall, making them ideal for travellers who prefer moderate weather conditions.

Nelson has two airports that are currently operating and serve commercial flights: Nelson Airport and nearby airports. These airports are important for connecting Nelson to other regions of New Zealand and beyond.

Nelson Airport

Nelson Airport is a small airport, primarily handling domestic flights. It has modern facilities. The airport plays a vital role in tourism and local transport. You can often find smaller, domestic airlines operating at this airport.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Sounds Air
• Fly MySky

Invercargill has one major airport currently operational for commercial flights: Invercargill Airport. This airport serves as a crucial transportation hub for the region.

Invercargill Airport

Invercargill Airport, located just 1.6 km west of the city centre, is a fully secured controlled international airport. Opened in 1938, this modern facility offers several amenities. It has a state-of-the-art terminal, opened in 2016. Getting to the city centre is easy. From the airport you can reach the city centre using various means of transport. There are regular bus services, conveniently located near the terminal. Taxi services are also readily available outside the arrivals area, providing a comfortable and direct ride to your destination. If you prefer, you can easily rent a car, several car rental companies operate directly from the airport.

Invercargill, despite being New Zealand's southernmost city, offers a surprising array of activities and attractions.

• Visit the Southland Museum and Art Gallery: Explore this museum's diverse collection, showcasing local history, art, and natural wonders of the region.
• Explore the Classic Motorcycle Mecca: Delve into the history of motorcycling, with an impressive collection of classic bikes and more.
• Take a scenic drive to Oreti Beach: Enjoy the beautiful coastal views and fresh sea air along this stunning stretch of coastline.