Embark on a journey from St. Louis, MO, to the captivating city of Auckland, New Zealand. Auckland, nestled on a stunning volcanic field, boasts breathtaking natural beauty, a rich Māori heritage, and a vibrant contemporary culture. Its iconic landmarks, stunning harbours, and lush landscapes attract travellers from around the globe, offering an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation. The journey itself can be part of the experience, though.

Direct flights from St. Louis, MO to Auckland are typically not available, meaning you'll need at least one stopover. The flight duration varies greatly depending on your chosen route and airline, and any unexpected delays. The average total journey time, including stopovers, is around 25-30 hours. Airlines offering flights with a stopover include Air New Zealand and United Airlines, offering convenient connections through various global hubs.

Popular stopover cities include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, or even more distant options like London or Sydney, significantly affecting the overall travel time. While it adds to the overall flight time, such stopovers may help you find cheaper airfares and provide opportunities to explore new destinations. The best time to book your flight is typically 2-3 months in advance, or even earlier, for greater cost-effectiveness. Generally, the cheapest months to fly are between April and September (excluding holiday periods), with airfares potentially rising during peak tourist seasons like December to February.

Auckland experiences its peak season during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warmest and most sunny, attracting a large influx of tourists. It's also a period with numerous local events and festivals. The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer a balance of pleasant weather with fewer crowds and potentially cheaper flights, making them ideal months for budget travellers. Off-peak months, generally June through August, are quieter with fewer tourists, but potentially colder and wetter, and less daylight hours. You can choose the best period for your trip.

Auckland enjoys a temperate climate, characterised by mild summers and relatively mild winters. Summers, from December to February, are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. Winters, from June to August, are cool and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures and sunshine, making them ideal seasons for exploring the city. Auckland rarely experiences extreme weather events, although occasional strong winds and heavy rainfall can occur throughout the year.

St. Louis, MO has two major airports that serve commercial flights: St. Louis Lambert International Airport and Spirit of St. Louis Airport. These airports offer a wide variety of destinations.

St. Louis Lambert International Airport

Opened in 1956, St. Louis Lambert International Airport is a large international airport with multiple terminals, offering numerous flights across the US and internationally. It's a modern airport with recent renovations, offering a variety of amenities.

Spirit of St. Louis Airport

Spirit of St. Louis Airport is a smaller airport primarily serving domestic flights. It's a more convenient option for some travellers within the region.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• United Airlines
• American Airlines

Auckland has two main airports currently operating and serving commercial flights: Auckland Airport and Ardmore Airport. These airports provide access to various domestic and international destinations.

Auckland Airport

Auckland Airport is New Zealand's largest and busiest airport. It's a modern facility with multiple terminals and offers a wide range of services, serving as a major hub for Air New Zealand and other airlines. You can reach Auckland city centre from Auckland Airport by public transport, using a train or bus. Taxi services are also widely available, providing a convenient way to reach your destination. Alternatively, you can rent a car directly at the airport for more flexibility in exploring the region.

Ardmore Airport

Ardmore Airport is a smaller airport primarily serving domestic flights and general aviation. It's located south of Auckland City and has more limited services compared to Auckland Airport.

Auckland, the City of Sails, offers a blend of urban excitement and natural beauty, providing many opportunities for exploration.

• Explore the Auckland Domain: This large park features walking trails, historical sites including the Auckland War Memorial Museum, and stunning city views.
• Visit the Sky Tower: Ascend Auckland's iconic Sky Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, harbour, and surrounding volcanic cones.
• Wander through Waiheke Island: Take a ferry to Waiheke Island, renowned for its vineyards, olive groves, art galleries, and stunning beaches.