Planning a trip from Queenstown, New Zealand, to Manchester, England? Manchester, a city with a rich tapestry of history, culture and innovation, beckons travellers with its iconic landmarks, vibrant arts scene, and captivating blend of old and new. Its industrial heritage transformed the face of the world and today, the city's cultural vibrancy shines as brightly as ever. It's a must-see destination for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. The fastest way to get there is by plane, with flight times averaging roughly 24 hours.

Direct flights from Queenstown to Manchester are infrequent, most travelers will find it cost-effective to book a flight with one or two stopovers. Airlines like Air New Zealand and Qantas usually offer multiple routes. Flight frequency varies. Booking in advance, especially during the cheaper months of the year, is crucial to securing the best deals. In general, flights are more expensive during peak tourist seasons.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative, consider flights with stopovers in popular hubs such as Singapore, London or Dubai. While this increases overall travel time, you might find significantly cheaper flight options, especially when you avoid flying during the peak season. This also lets you explore a new city during your journey! The ideal months for budget travellers to fly are typically between March and May, or September and November.

Peak travel times to Manchester are from June to August when it's warm and during the Christmas period in December. For a quieter experience, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) or the winter months (excluding the Christmas holidays). During these times you will also find cheaper accommodation. Booking your flight at least three months in advance is often suggested to get the best deals. Airfares are often lower when booking well in advance.

Manchester boasts a generally mild, temperate oceanic climate. Summers (June to August) are pleasant, with average highs around 20℃, ideal for outdoor activities. However, expect some rain. Winters (December to February) are cool, with average lows around 4℃ and more rain and occasional snowfall in the surrounding hills. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer comfortable temperatures and a varied mix of sunshine and rain.

Queenstown has only one currently operating airport that serves commercial flights: Queenstown Airport (ZQN).

Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Queenstown Airport is a small, modern airport serving both domestic and international flights. It's known for its stunning scenery and convenient location, close to the town centre. The airport has recently undergone renovations to improve its facilities.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Emirates

Manchester has primarily one major airport, Manchester Airport (MAN), serving commercial flights. There are some smaller airfields in the region but they do not handle commercial flights.

Manchester Airport (MAN)

Manchester Airport is a large international airport, the third busiest in the UK. It offers multiple terminals and numerous connections to destinations worldwide. The airport is well connected to Manchester city centre via a train that departs every few minutes and takes 20 minutes to reach Piccadilly station in Manchester. Taxis and private car services are also readily available outside the terminals.

Manchester offers a diverse range of activities for every taste. From exploring historical sites to indulging in its vibrant cultural scene, you'll find something to excite you.

• Explore the Museums: Manchester boasts world-class museums like the Science and Industry Museum, offering a fascinating journey through the city's industrial heritage and advancements in science and technology. The museum has a large collection of exhibits that are fun for all ages.
• Catch a Football Match: As the birthplace of football, Manchester is home to two iconic clubs: Manchester United and Manchester City. Attend a match at Old Trafford or the Etihad Stadium for an electrifying experience, immersing in the excitement of this historic sport.
• Experience the nightlife: Manchester's nightlife is legendary, buzzing with trendy bars, pubs and clubs in the Northern Quarter. There are bars to suit all tastes, and if you like live music there are many clubs and pubs that offer local and national bands. The city has a vibrant and diverse night life.