Planning a trip from Wellington to Cairns offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse beauty of Australia. Cairns, nestled in Tropical North Queensland, is a vibrant hub renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, rich Indigenous culture and proximity to the iconic Great Barrier Reef. The city attracts travellers from around the globe eager to explore its breathtaking rainforests, sparkling beaches, and vibrant marine life. This makes Cairns an attractive destination, appealing to a wide range of travellers, from adventure seekers to nature enthusiasts. The fastest way to reach Cairns from Wellington is by air, with several airlines operating regular flights.

The average direct flight duration from Wellington to Cairns is around 4 hours. However, this can vary depending on the specific route, weather conditions, and aircraft type. Airlines offering this route include Air New Zealand and Qantas, often providing multiple flights per week, although the exact frequency might change depending on the season and demand. While direct flights are common, keep in mind that you may sometimes need a stopover, impacting the total journey time. If there are no direct flights, common layover cities include Brisbane or Sydney, increasing the overall travel time by several hours.

To secure the cheapest flights, it's ideal to book in advance, during the off-peak season. Typically, the ideal months for budget travellers are January, February and March when prices are most likely to be at their lowest. The best time to book your flight would be 2-3 months in advance to secure good deals and avoid peak season fares. Peak travel season falls during the Australian summer (December to February), due to the warm weather and many school holidays. This is when the destination is busiest and accommodation is more expensive. Conversely, the quietest time to visit is during the Australian winter (June to August), but you will need to expect cooler temperatures.

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate, characterised by distinct wet and dry seasons. Summer (December to February) brings high temperatures, averaging between 23.6°C and 31.4°C, high humidity and significant rainfall. Winter (June to August), conversely, is much drier and milder, with average temperatures ranging from 17.5°C to 26°C. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer shoulder seasons with pleasant temperatures and generally less rainfall than summer, making them popular times to visit. Extreme weather events, such as cyclones, are more common during the summer wet season.

Wellington has one major airport currently in operation serving commercial flights: Wellington Airport.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport, also known as WLG, is the primary airport serving the city of Wellington, New Zealand. It's a modern airport with several international and domestic airlines operating from there. It is an important hub for both domestic and international flights, handling millions of passengers annually.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Qantas
• Jetstar

Cairns has one main airport that serves commercial flights: Cairns Airport.

Cairns Airport

Cairns Airport (CNS) is a major airport in Tropical North Queensland, Australia. It's a large airport, handling both domestic and international flights. It's a significant hub for the region, providing connections to various destinations throughout Australia and internationally.

To reach Cairns city centre from Cairns Airport, several options are available. Public transport includes buses that operate regularly between the airport and the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily accessible at designated areas outside the terminals. Car rental services are available for those who prefer to drive themselves.

Cairns offers a plethora of activities for visitors. From exploring the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest to immersing oneself in the local culture, Cairns caters to all interests. It is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia.

• Great Barrier Reef trip: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life of the Great Barrier Reef through snorkelling or diving tours.
• Daintree Rainforest exploration: Discover the ancient rainforest, home to unique flora and fauna, on guided walks or scenic drives.
• Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Enjoy breathtaking views of the rainforest from both the railway and cableway, combining a unique travel experience with stunning scenery.