Los Angeles, a city of dreams, beckons with its iconic landmarks, rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the sandy beaches of Santa Monica, there's something for every traveller. The city's diverse neighbourhoods offer unique experiences, while its natural landscapes, from the Pacific Ocean to the mountains, provide stunning backdrops for unforgettable adventures. This makes Los Angeles an attractive destination for millions of tourists every year.

The average direct flight time from Queenstown to Los Angeles is around 13 hours. However, flight duration can vary depending on weather conditions, wind speeds, and the specific flight path taken. You can typically find direct flights with Air New Zealand, which operates multiple flights per week, and LATAM Airlines that offer a similar frequency.

While direct flights are the fastest way to reach Los Angeles, alternative routes with layovers may offer cost-effective options. Layover cities may vary, but common hubs include Auckland, Sydney and other major airports. These layovers will, of course, increase your overall travel time.

The ideal months for budget travellers to fly are typically January and February, which fall outside of peak season. Booking your flight two to three months in advance generally offers the best deals. During the holiday season (November-December) and the summer months (June-August), airfares tend to be higher due to increased demand. These are the peak seasons.

Los Angeles sees its busiest period during summer (June to August) and around the holiday season, as well as during the spring and autumn shoulder season (March to May and September to November) due to pleasant weather and many events. The quietest time to visit is typically during the winter months (December to February), although some events can still see higher demands.

Los Angeles enjoys a Mediterranean climate, meaning it has warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers (June to August) are hot and dry, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 29°C. Winters (December to February) are mild, with average temperatures between 9°C and 20°C. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. While extreme weather events are rare, occasional Santa Ana winds can bring warm, dry conditions, especially in autumn. Rainfall is concentrated mainly in the winter months, with the wettest month generally being February. Los Angeles has average yearly humidity of 73%.

Queenstown has only one airport currently operating and serving commercial flights: Queenstown Airport (ZQN).

Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Queenstown Airport is a relatively small, but modern airport serving both domestic and international flights. Opened in 1970, it has seen several upgrades in recent years, including renovations to its terminal and expansion to accommodate increasing passenger numbers. It serves as a major hub for tourism in the region.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• LATAM Airlines
• Qantas

The Los Angeles area is served by several airports, but the main one is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

LAX is a major international airport, one of the busiest in the world. Opened in 1928, it has grown significantly since then and now boasts several terminals to accommodate a large volume of passengers. It's known for its extensive facilities, including shopping, dining, and lounges, and features a Tom Bradley International Terminal for international flights.

Getting to the city centre from LAX is easy. Public transport options include the FlyAway bus service to various locations across the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available outside each terminal. Car rental services are also situated within the airport complex for visitors wishing to explore the region at their own pace.

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, offers a vibrant mix of entertainment, culture, and natural beauty. You can explore iconic attractions, enjoy world-class dining, or simply relax on the beach.

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Stroll down the iconic Walk of Fame, admiring the stars dedicated to legendary figures of the entertainment industry.
• Santa Monica Pier: Experience the classic amusement park, take a ride on the Ferris wheel, and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
• Griffith Observatory: Visit this iconic landmark for breathtaking panoramic views of the Los Angeles cityscape and the Hollywood sign.