Christchurch, located on the South Island of New Zealand, is a city rich in culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Its iconic landmarks, such as the Botanic Gardens and the Christchurch Art Gallery, attract many visitors. The city's rich heritage is evident in its architecture and museums, while the nearby Southern Alps offer breathtaking scenic landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures. The vibrant local culinary scene and the friendly atmosphere create a welcoming experience for travellers. The fastest way to reach Christchurch from Wellington is by air. Direct flights typically take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, although this can be affected by weather conditions and air traffic.

Several major airlines offer frequent direct flights between Wellington and Christchurch. Air New Zealand and Jetstar are two such airlines, operating multiple flights daily. You won't typically need a stopover for this route. While there aren't any alternative routes with stopovers for this domestic flight, it’s worth noting that booking in advance can often secure the best deals and cheaper prices.

The ideal months for budget travellers to fly are typically during the off-peak seasons, such as autumn (March-May) and winter (June-August). These periods tend to offer cheaper flights. Booking your flight well in advance is usually a good practice to get cheaper prices, especially during peak travel periods. Seasonal airfare trends show that prices increase significantly during the peak summer months (December-February) and holiday periods.

Christchurch is busiest during the summer months (December-February), especially around the Christmas and New Year period, when the city hosts a number of events and festivals. The weather during this period is also at its warmest and most pleasant. This period also sees a significant influx of tourists. In contrast, the quietest times to visit are during the winter months (June-August) when many attractions see reduced visitor numbers. Be aware that some businesses might have reduced hours during this quieter period.

Christchurch enjoys a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers (December-February) are warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 23°C. Winters (June-August) are cool, often reaching freezing temperatures overnight. Spring (September-November) brings pleasant temperatures of around 15°C to 17°C, while autumn (March-May) provides milder weather between 14°C and 18°C. The city sees fairly low rainfall throughout the year and enjoys around 2100 hours of sunshine annually. Extreme weather events such as strong winds are possible in winter, however, such events are usually not too prolonged.

Wellington has two main airports currently operating and serving commercial flights.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport is the primary airport serving the city, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. It's a modern facility, with various amenities for passengers.

Other airports

There are other smaller airports within the Wellington region, but these generally serve only domestic routes and are not as frequently used.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• Jetstar
• Sounds Air

Christchurch is primarily served by one major airport.

Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport (CHC) is the main airport serving the city and region. It's a modern facility with multiple terminals, serving both domestic and international flights. The airport is located approximately 12 km northwest of the city centre.

Getting to the city centre from Christchurch Airport is easy. There's a regular bus service that runs directly into the city centre, making it a cost-effective option for many. Taxis are also available outside the airport terminals, offering door-to-door service. If you prefer to drive yourself, several rental car companies have desks at the airport.

Christchurch offers a variety of attractions and activities to suit diverse interests.

• Explore the Botanic Gardens: Discover a tranquil oasis with diverse plant life and stunning scenery.
• Visit the International Antarctic Centre: Experience the thrill of a simulated Antarctic journey, including husky encounters.
• Wander through the city centre: Explore the revitalised city centre, admiring the architecture and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.