How to Get to New Zealand from Australia

With a flight to Australia from many parts of the world taking so incredibly long, it just makes sense for travelers to make the most of their trip and hit New Zealand as well. A number of airlines travel between the two countries regularly, some at budget rates that will please just about anyone. Better than the price is the short flight distance. Taking just around three hours in travel time from major cities on the east coast of Australia to Auckland, New Zealand is literally a hop, skip and a jump away!

Unless you have time, the will to join a big cruise or the means to boat across on your own, then a flight between the two countries is generally in order. Budget flights can be made on both Jetstar and Virgin Australia, while Qantas and Air New Zealand are the more mainstream airline choices. Read more about the transport options to New Zealand, as well as search for cheap flights, in the following articles:

• Getting from Sydney to Auckland
• Getting from Melbourne to Auckland
• Getting from Brisbane to Auckland

Quick search flights to Auckland (AKL) from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL) and Brisbane (BNE):

Sort New Zealand Visa Matters

Australians are able to travel freely to New Zealand just as New Zealanders are able to do for Australia. Other nationalities and passport holders will need to make sure they have the proper visa requirements met before even checking in at the airport (this includes proper exit flights from New Zealand in addition to proper return visa requirements for Australia). There is nothing worse than finding out at the airport that you have to book a flight to your home country (instead of back to Australia) at the very last minute. Been there; done that.

Follow Luggage Guidelines

Be aware when booking your flights that many of the budget airlines will charge a fee for checked baggage. If you can stick to carry-on luggage only, then you might just save money. In addition, you’ll want to know if there is a fee for checked baggage as purchasing that will generally cost more at the airport. Remember to read on up the rules regarding liquids in your carry-on luggage before packing.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a smart move for any trip of any length as you never know exactly what the future has in store. Not only do flights get delayed and suitcases get lost, but there is also the worry for injuries and accidents abroad. Without proper coverage in another country, major medical expenses could come out of pocket and ruin more than a holiday. I would suggest having a read-through of the Travel Insurance page to find out more on the ways it can protect you on your travels.

Photo credit: 1, 2.