Planning a trip from New Plymouth to Wellington? You're in for a treat. Wellington, New Zealand's capital, is a vibrant city boasting a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving arts and culture scene. From its iconic landmarks like the Te Papa Museum and the iconic Wellington Cable Car to its breathtaking harbour views and numerous parks, there's something for everyone. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, while its proximity to nature provides opportunities for outdoor adventures.

The flight duration from New Plymouth to Wellington is typically short, averaging around 35 to 45 minutes for a direct flight. However, this can be affected by weather conditions, air traffic, and the specific aircraft used. Air New Zealand and Sounds Air are two major airlines offering frequent direct flights between these two cities, with multiple departures daily. You won't need a stopover for this route. There are no alternative routes as both cities have their own respective airports and no indirect routes are offered by airlines.

The best time to book a flight to Wellington for the best deals is generally during the off-peak seasons, which typically fall between March and May (autumn) and September and November (spring). Booking in advance, ideally 2-3 months prior to your departure, is always recommended. Airfares tend to increase closer to the travel date. During peak season, particularly December to February (summer) and July to August (winter), expect higher prices due to increased demand. Wellington is at its busiest during the summer months due to favourable weather and school holidays. In contrast, the autumn and spring months tend to be less crowded, making them ideal for budget-friendly travel.

Wellington's weather is known for its unpredictability, so it's always wise to pack layers! Summers (December to February) are mild, with average highs around 20°C, though it can be surprisingly windy. Expect some rain and sunshine throughout the summer. Autumn (March to May) offers milder temperatures averaging between 15°C and 8°C, with more rain. Winters (June to August) are the coldest, averaging below 8°C, with strong Antarctic winds a common occurrence and slightly less rainfall. Spring (September to November) is a transition season, with temperatures rising to around 15°C. It can still be quite windy and rainy during spring. Always check the weather forecast before your trip.

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

New Plymouth Airport

New Plymouth Airport (NPL) is a smaller domestic airport, serving mainly regional flights within New Zealand. It's a modern airport with a single terminal, handling a moderate number of passengers and flights daily. The airport features a range of amenities for passengers including cafes and shops.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Sounds Air
• Fly My Sky

Wellington has one major airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Wellington Airport.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport (WLG) is a busy international and domestic airport, serving numerous airlines and destinations both within New Zealand and internationally. It's a modern airport with multiple terminals, handling a large number of passengers and flights daily. The airport offers a wide array of amenities including restaurants, cafes, shops and lounges. It underwent recent renovations to improve passenger experience.

Getting to the city centre from Wellington Airport is easy. The airport is well-connected to the city centre via public transport, taxis, and car rental services. Public transport options include buses, which provide regular services directly to the city's main bus station, situated centrally. Taxis are readily available at the airport's designated taxi rank, providing a door-to-door service. Car rental agencies are also present at the airport, offering a wide selection of vehicles.

Wellington offers a fantastic blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. It's a compact city, easy to navigate, and full of hidden gems.

• Te Papa Museum: Explore New Zealand's history and culture at this world-class museum, with interactive exhibits and captivating stories.
• Wellington Cable Car: Ascend to the city's hills for panoramic views of the harbour and surrounding areas, followed by a stroll through the Wellington Botanic Garden.
• Zealandia Ecosanctuary: Discover a unique wildlife sanctuary, home to various native New Zealand birds, reptiles, and plants.