St. Louis, nestled on the Mississippi River, is a city brimming with history, culture, and Midwestern charm. Its iconic Gateway Arch, a testament to westward expansion, is a must-see, drawing in millions of visitors each year. Beyond the Arch, St. Louis boasts a vibrant arts scene, world-class museums, and a rich culinary landscape reflecting its diverse heritage. For nature lovers, Forest Park, one of the largest urban parks in the US, provides ample space for relaxation and recreation. The city’s unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty makes it an appealing destination for a wide range of travellers.

The average direct flight time from Wellington to St. Louis is approximately 24 hours, although this can vary depending on weather conditions, headwinds, and the specific aircraft used. While direct flights are uncommon, you may find some options with airlines like Air New Zealand and United Airlines, although these may require a lengthy stopover in a major hub. For the most cost-effective routes, frequent stopovers might be necessary.

If you’re looking for alternative routes, many airlines offer flights with layovers. Common layover cities include Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston, significantly increasing travel time to over 30 hours, but this often translates to cheaper deals. To find the best deals, it's suggested to book during the off-season, usually between November and March, and it is advisable to book your flight at least three to six months in advance.

The busiest times to visit St. Louis are during the summer months (June-August) due to warm weather and outdoor events. Conversely, the quietest time is during the winter months (December-February) when the weather can be quite cold. However, this quieter period also offers the potential for cost-effective travel.

St. Louis enjoys a four-season climate. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently reaching highs of 32°C or more. Winters are generally cold, with average lows around -2°C. Spring and autumn offer pleasant transitional periods, with mild temperatures and variable precipitation. Spring tends to be wetter than autumn, however it’s the season with the highest risk of thunderstorms and tornadoes.

Wellington offers two main airports currently serving commercial flights: Wellington Airport and Kapiti Coast Airport. Both airports are significant gateways for domestic and international travel.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport is the primary airport serving Wellington. It’s a modern facility that is well-equipped for international travellers and handles a large volume of both domestic and international flights. It’s one of the busiest airports in New Zealand.

Kapiti Coast Airport

Kapiti Coast Airport, a smaller airport, primarily caters to domestic flights with limited service. Although it doesn’t receive international flights, it's still quite a useful option.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• United Airlines
• American Airlines

St. Louis is primarily served by one major airport: St. Louis Lambert International Airport, along with a smaller general aviation airport.

St. Louis Lambert International Airport

St. Louis Lambert International Airport is the main airport in the St. Louis metropolitan area, offering both domestic and international connections, serving numerous airlines and destinations. It’s also well-connected to downtown St. Louis through public transportation, taxi services, and car rentals.

Getting to the city centre from the airport is straightforward. Public transportation options include the MetroLink light rail system, which connects the airport directly to various city centre points. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at designated airport pick-up areas. Car rental companies have counters at the airport, providing convenient options for travellers who wish to explore the area at their own pace.

St. Louis offers a wide array of attractions for every kind of traveller. From its historical sites to its vibrant cultural offerings, there's something for everyone. Whether it’s exploring the city’s rich history at the Gateway Arch, immersing yourself in the world of blues music at the National Blues Museum, or enjoying the outdoors in Forest Park, St Louis has something special.

• Gateway Arch National Park: Explore the iconic Gateway Arch, a symbol of westward expansion, and visit the museum located beneath it.
• City Museum: Discover this unique and quirky museum, featuring repurposed architectural elements and interactive exhibits for all ages.
• Anheuser-Busch Brewery: Take a tour of this renowned brewery and learn about the history of Budweiser beer.