Planning a trip from Seattle to Wellington offers an exciting blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. Wellington, New Zealand's capital, boasts a captivating history, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant arts scene, attracting travellers from around the globe. Its iconic landmarks, rich Māori heritage, and proximity to breathtaking natural wonders make it a truly unforgettable destination.

Direct flights from Seattle to Wellington are available, although the average flight duration is around 19-20 hours. However, this can vary depending on weather conditions and the specific aircraft used. Several major airlines, such as Air New Zealand and LATAM, offer flights between Seattle and Wellington with varying frequencies. While direct flights are readily available, be aware that they may not operate daily and flight availability might change based on the time of year.

If no direct flights suit your schedule, several alternative routes with stopovers in major hubs like Los Angeles, Houston, or Sydney offer more flexibility. These stopovers can increase total travel time significantly, often adding 5-10 hours to the journey. Booking flights several months in advance, especially during the peak season, often secures the best deals. The ideal months to book for budget-friendly fares are generally during the shoulder seasons, in April and May. It's advisable to check flight prices and availability frequently and book well ahead of your travel dates to find the cheapest option.

Peak travel season in Wellington falls between December and February, coinciding with summer and the school holidays, which results in higher airfares and limited availability. The quietest period is usually from June to August during the winter months. However, if you don't mind cooler weather, Wellington is a wonderful place to visit during the off-peak season. The combination of fewer crowds and potentially lower costs makes for a much more cost-effective experience.

Wellington enjoys a temperate climate, but its weather is known for its variability. Summers (December to February) are the warmest, with average highs around 20°C, although it can be windy. Autumn (March to May) offers pleasant temperatures averaging between 15°C and 8°C, but is also the rainiest season. Winter (June to August) sees the coldest temperatures, averaging around 8°C or below, with frequent strong winds. Spring (September to November) is a transition season, with temperatures gradually increasing towards summer, but with still some chances of wind and rain.

Seattle has two major airports that operate commercial flights: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and Boeing Field/King County International Airport (BFI).

Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

SEA is a large, modern airport serving as a major hub for several airlines, including Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines. Opened in 1944, it boasts multiple terminals, numerous facilities, and handles a vast number of both international and domestic flights daily. It's one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Boeing Field/King County International Airport (BFI)

BFI is a smaller, general aviation airport primarily serving smaller aircraft. It's more focused on private and cargo flights and has significantly fewer airlines and routes than SEA.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• LATAM Airlines
• Delta Air Lines

Wellington has one main airport currently operating commercial flights: Wellington Airport (WLG).

Wellington Airport (WLG)

Wellington Airport is the primary airport serving Wellington city. It's a relatively modern facility handling both domestic and international flights. The airport is conveniently located, with easy access to the city centre through various means of transportation.

To reach the city centre from Wellington Airport, you can take the airport bus, which offers a frequent and affordable service. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal, providing a convenient, although more expensive, option. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves into the city.

Wellington offers a diverse range of attractions, blending urban experiences with stunning natural surroundings. Its compact size makes exploring easy and enjoyable.

• Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand: Explore New Zealand's rich history and culture through interactive exhibits.
• Wellington Botanic Garden: Discover diverse flora and stunning views of the city and harbour from these beautiful gardens.
• Zealandia Ecosanctuary: Encounter unique New Zealand wildlife in this urban nature reserve.