9 CHEAPEST Airports to Fly Into New Zealand in 2025

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Ready to experience New Zealand’s jaw-dropping landscapes, from rugged coastlines to epic mountain ranges and vibrant cities? As a travel blogger who’s visited 66 countries, I’ve picked up some tricks to make long-haul flights affordable—and New Zealand is no exception.

For this guide, I analyzed flights from 150 major airports worldwide, focusing mainly on routes from the US and Europe, to find the 9 cheapest airports to fly into New Zealand in 2025. Whether you’re planning to explore Auckland’s bustling streets, take in the natural beauty of Queenstown, hike Mount Cook, or dive into the culture of Wellington, these airports will get you there without the high price tag. Here’s where to land for the best savings on your New Zealand adventure!

#1 tip to find cheap flights to New Zealand

Looking for cheap flights to New Zealand? Before diving into all the top cities and airports to fly to New Zealand, I want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past 3 years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $997 roundtrip fare from Boston to Auckland.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best New Zealand flights in 2025.

1. Auckland Airport (AKL)

• 🏠 Location: 13 miles south of Auckland’s city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Major international hub with nonstop routes and aggressive airline competition
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Hawaiian Airlines, United
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Watch for roundtrip fares from the US dipping below $1,000 in April or October, especially on midweek departures.

If you’re flying to New Zealand on a budget, Auckland Airport is your best bet. It’s the country’s busiest airport, which means more flights, more flexibility, and better deals. Roundtrip fares from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Houston typically fall between $900–$1,250, and you’ll often find promo fares during New Zealand’s spring or fall.

You won’t need to go far to start your adventure. The Sky Tower, Ponsonby cafés, and ferry rides to Rangitoto Island are all nearby. You’re also just two hours from the Hobbiton Movie Set or three from Rotorua’s bubbling geothermal parks. Rental cars and tours tend to be cheaper here compared to smaller airports.

Fun fact: AKL has a full-scale rugby pitch painted near its runway. It’s visible from the air and a nod to New Zealand’s national obsession.

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2. Christchurch Airport (CHC)

• 🏠 Location: 7 miles northwest of Christchurch city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Key South Island hub with regular deals and low-cost connections
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Qantas, Jetstar
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Flights through Australia are often cheaper than direct US routes. Look for bundles from Sydney or Melbourne that include Christchurch as the second leg.

Christchurch is a smart pick for budget-conscious travelers heading to the South Island. Roundtrip flights from the US usually sit between $950–$1,300, but if you route through Australia, it’s often possible to save $100 or more. Spring and early fall bring milder weather and cheaper fares, with fewer crowds at the main sights.

Once you land, the city’s mix of historic charm and modern rebuilds makes for a chill starting point. You’re close to day trips like Kaikoura’s whale coast, the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, and the start of the scenic TranzAlpine train route. Rental cars are easy to snag here, and domestic flights across New Zealand are often cheaper from CHC than smaller airports.

Fun fact: Christchurch Airport has its own Antarctic research center. You can even spot snow gear-clad scientists in the terminal boarding ice-bound flights.

• Read next: Things to Do in Lake Tekapo

3. New Plymouth Airport (NPL)

• 🏠 Location: About 7 miles north of New Plymouth city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Smaller airport with lower domestic fares and regional deals
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Sounds Air
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Combine a cheap international flight into Auckland with a domestic hop to NPL to save big and avoid rental car drop-off fees.

New Plymouth Airport isn’t your typical arrival point, but it’s a solid budget option for travelers heading to the North Island. Flying into Auckland first, then booking a separate domestic leg to NPL, often keeps total fares under $1,100. One-way flights from Auckland to NPL regularly sit between $50–$80, and deals pop up more often during the off-peak months of March or November.

This quiet coastal city offers a stunning mix of surf beaches, artsy streets, and hiking trails. Pukekura Park, the Len Lye Centre, and the Coastal Walkway are all must-dos. New Plymouth is also a convenient base for exploring the Taranaki region without the chaos of bigger cities.

Fun fact: The airport’s design was inspired by the region’s volcanic peaks, with a dramatic roofline that mimics Mount Taranaki.

• Read next: Hidden Gems in New Zealand
• You may also like: Prettiest Places in New Zealand

4. Wellington Airport (WLG)

• 🏠 Location: 5 miles southeast of downtown Wellington
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Central location with steady airline competition from domestic and trans-Tasman routes
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Jetstar, Air New Zealand, Qantas
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book a roundtrip flight into Auckland and out of Wellington to save on domestic transfers and avoid backtracking.

Wellington Airport is one of the cheapest airports to fly into if you’re planning to explore both the North and South Islands. Roundtrip fares from major US cities like Los Angeles or Chicago often range from $950–$1,250, especially in April or September when tourism slows but the weather stays mild.

Upon landing, you’re just 15 minutes from the city’s art scene, harbor views, and historic cable car. WLG is also a perfect launchpad for day trips. In under two hours, you can ferry to Picton, drive to the wine country of Martinborough, or hike the forests of the Remutaka Ranges. Rental cars are also often cheaper here than in Queenstown or Auckland, and many city attractions are walkable.

Fun fact: Wellington Airport features several Lord of the Rings displays created by Weta Workshop, including a giant Gollum reaching for fish above the food court. It’s basically Middle-earth before you even leave the terminal.

5. Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

• 🏠 Location: 5 miles from Queenstown town center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Off-peak seasons and Australian budget carriers help drop fares
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Jetstar, Air New Zealand, Qantas
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Queenstown in shoulder season and book accommodations early. Prices skyrocket in ski season, so lock in deals ahead of time.

Queenstown Airport isn’t always the cheapest airport on paper, but it becomes a smart option when flying outside peak months like June to August. Roundtrip flights from US cities with a layover in Australia often land between $1,000–$1,350, with better deals in April or October.

Landing here puts you right in the middle of New Zealand’s adventure capital. From the airport, you can reach the Remarkables ski area in under 40 minutes or get to Fiordland National Park in about four hours. Car rentals are typically cheaper in spring and fall, and public transport to town is quick and affordable.

Fun fact: Pilots flying into Queenstown need special training due to the tricky mountain approach, which means your landing is basically a bonus adventure.

6. Hamilton Airport (HLZ)

• 🏠 Location: 9 miles south of Hamilton city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Smaller regional airport with low-cost domestic flights from Auckland and Wellington
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Originair
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Hamilton is a smart starting point for road trips because car rentals here are often cheaper than in bigger cities like Auckland. You’ll avoid the high one-way drop-off fees that come with returning a rental to a different airport.

Hamilton Airport may not have direct international flights, but it’s a sneaky budget move for travelers already arriving in Auckland. Domestic flights to HLZ often run between $40–$80 one-way, and pairing them with a cheap US–Auckland flight can keep your total cost under $1,150, especially in May or early November.

Once you arrive, you’re less than 30 minutes from the Hobbiton Movie Set, and Rotorua’s geothermal parks are just 90 minutes away. Hamilton itself is known for its lush gardens and growing food scene. Rental cars are affordable here, and traffic is a lot more relaxed than in the bigger hubs.

Fun fact: Hamilton Airport shares its runway with a flight training school, so you’ll often see student pilots practicing takeoffs and landings right from the terminal windows.

7. Nelson Airport (NSN)

• 🏠 Location: About 5 miles southwest of Nelson city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: High domestic traffic and regular budget flights from major cities
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Sounds Air, Jetstar
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into Nelson from Auckland or Wellington, then use local buses or rental cars to explore nearby national parks without paying big-city prices.

Nelson Airport is a favorite among domestic travelers for good reason. Flights from Auckland and Wellington often range from $40–$90 one-way, and with a US–Auckland roundtrip under $1,150, it’s a great second-leg option. Travel during February or October for the best combination of weather and lower fares.

This sunny little city makes a perfect base for outdoor adventures. Abel Tasman National Park is just an hour away and filled with golden beaches and kayak-friendly coves. Nelson Lakes is a scenic drive inland, while craft breweries and artist studios fill the town itself.

Fun fact: Nelson Airport is one of the busiest regional airports in New Zealand despite having no international flights.

8. Palmerston North Airport (PMR)

• 🏠 Location: 3 miles northeast of Palmerston North city center
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Underrated regional airport with consistent low-cost domestic options
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Originair
• 🧠 Pro Tip: PMR often has the shortest security wait times of any North Island airport, so it’s a smart choice if you’re tight on time or flying during peak domestic travel weeks.

Palmerston North Airport is an underrated but budget-friendly way to reach the heart of the North Island. Flights from Auckland or Wellington usually sit between $50–$85 one-way, and roundtrip flights from the US with a domestic leg can stay under $1,100. Plan your trip in April or early November for cheaper fares and quieter roads.

Flying into PMR puts you within two hours of Tongariro National Park, Whanganui, and Kapiti Coast. It’s a strategic jumping-off point for travelers who want both mountain adventures and beach towns without long drive times. In town, explore Victoria Esplanade or visit Te Manawa Museum for a mix of art and science.

Fun fact: The airport has a small aviation museum right next door, where you can check out vintage aircraft and learn about New Zealand’s flying history without straying far from the terminal.

• Read next: Unique Travel Experiences

9. Hawke’s Bay Airport (NPE)

• 🏠 Location: 4 miles from Napier and Hastings city centers
• 💰 Why It’s Cheap: Strong competition on domestic routes and seasonal deals from Australia
• ✈️ Best Airlines: Air New Zealand, Jetstar
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Fly into NPE and base yourself in Napier for affordable vineyard tours and scenic coastal drives that don’t require pricey guided packages

Hawke’s Bay Airport serves the twin cities of Napier and Hastings, offering budget access to one of New Zealand’s sunniest regions. Domestic flights often cost $40–$85, and flying into Auckland with a separate leg to NPE can keep total roundtrip costs under $1,150 if booked for April or late October.

Napier is just 10 minutes from the airport and is packed with art deco buildings, breezy promenades, and oceanfront cycling paths. Hastings is equally close and known for farmers’ markets and boutique wineries. Within a two-hour radius, you can take a road trip to Te Mata Peak, Cape Kidnappers’ gannet colonies, or the beaches at Waimarama and Ocean Beach.

Fun fact: NPE’s terminal has an open-air viewing deck where locals wave goodbye or welcome travelers with views of the surrounding vineyards.

• Read next: New Zealand Travel Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cheapest New Zealand Airports to Fly Into

This section aims to address common questions and provide insightful answers about journeying through the cheapest airports to fly into New Zealand. This ensures your adventure is as smooth as it is memorable.

Which airport in New Zealand is cheapest to fly into?

The cheapest airport to fly into New Zealand can fluctuate based on various factors. This includes the time of year, airline promotions, and global travel trends. Often, larger international hubs like Auckland Airport (AKL) and Christchurch Airport (CHC) might offer more competitive pricing due to the higher volume of flights and options available. These airports tend to have more frequent deals and a wider array of airlines. As such, this can drive down prices and provide more budget-friendly options for travelers.

What month is the cheapest to fly to NZ?

Traveling to New Zealand can be most economical during the shoulder seasons, which are typically during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months. During these periods, the weather is still quite pleasant, and attractions less crowded, providing a balanced and cost-effective travel experience. Airlines and accommodations, such as Airbnbs and vacation rentals in NZ, might offer reduced rates during these times to encourage travel outside of the peak tourist season. This makes it a savvy choice for budget-conscious explorers.

What is the best city to fly into New Zealand?

The “best” city to fly into New Zealand can depend heavily on your travel plans and preferences. Auckland is one of the primary international hubs. It offers extensive connectivity and serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the North Island. Meanwhile, Christchurch provides easy access to the South Island’s myriad of natural wonders. Your ideal entry point might also be influenced by specific destinations on your itinerary or any direct flight options from your departure city.

What is the best way to travel to New Zealand from the US?

The best way to travel to New Zealand from the US is by air. Here’s a guide to help you plan your journey:

1. Direct Flights: Several major airlines offer direct flights from the US to New Zealand. The most common departure cities with direct routes include Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Houston (IAH). These flights typically land in Auckland (AKL), New Zealand’s largest international airport.
2. Airlines: Air New Zealand, United Airlines, and American Airlines are among the carriers that offer direct flights from the US to Auckland. Air New Zealand is known for its quality service and has won several awards for its long-haul flights.
3. Flight Duration: A direct flight from the US West Coast (like Los Angeles or San Francisco) to Auckland usually takes around 12-13 hours. From Houston, it’s approximately 14-15 hours.
4. Stopovers: Common stopover points when traveling from the US to New Zealand include Los Angeles, San Francisco, and cities in Australia like Sydney or Melbourne. Always check the total travel time and layover duration when booking connecting flights.
5. Entry Requirements: US citizens traveling to New Zealand for tourism purposes need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) before departure. Additionally, there’s an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) that must be paid during the ETA application process.
6. Best Time to Book: It’s generally a good idea to start monitoring flight prices several months in advance. Also, you’ll want to book when you find a deal that fits your budget. Remember, New Zealand’s seasons are opposite to those in the US, with their summer occurring during the US winter.
7. Arrival in New Zealand: Upon arrival in Auckland, you can take domestic flights to other parts of the country. New Zealand has a well-connected domestic flight network, making it easy to reach different parts of the country.

Why is it so expensive to fly to NZ?

The cost of flying to New Zealand can be influenced by its remote location, being situated in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, which means long-haul flights for travelers from many international locations. Additionally, factors such as fuel prices, airline operating costs, and demand during peak travel seasons can also impact flight prices. New Zealand is a popular travel destination, and its appeal can drive up prices, especially during the bustling summer tourist season.

How can I find the best deals on flights to New Zealand?

To secure the best deals on flights to the cheapest airports to fly into New Zealand, consider being flexible with your travel dates. In other words, you’ll want to book well in advance. Utilize flight comparison websites and set up price alerts for routes you’re considering to stay informed about any price drops or special promotions. Also, consider flying into major international hubs and exploring alternative transportation options to reach your final destination within the country.

Is it cheaper to fly into the North or South Island?

Typically, it might be cheaper to fly into the North Island, particularly via Auckland Airport, due to the higher volume of flights and availability of options. However, this can depend on your departure location and any airline promotions or deals available at the time of booking. It’s always worthwhile to compare prices for several airports and consider any additional transportation costs to reach your ultimate New Zealand destination.

Can I get direct flights from the USA to New Zealand?

Yes, direct flights from the USA to New Zealand are available. It common departs from major airports like Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) and arriving in Auckland. The availability of direct flights can depend on the airline and time of year, so it’s advisable to check specific airline schedules and routes to plan your journey effectively.

Are there budget airlines that operate within New Zealand?

Yes, New Zealand is serviced by several budget airlines, such as Jetstar and Air New Zealand’s domestic services. These airlines can provide economical options for traveling within the country. They often offer competitive pricing for domestic routes. This makes it a cost-effective way to explore different regions and cities during your stay.

Which airport should I fly into New Zealand?

New Zealand has several international airports, and the best one to fly into depends on your travel plans and the destinations you want to visit within the country. Here are the main international airports in New Zealand:

1. Auckland Airport (AKL): Located in Auckland, it’s the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand. Most international flights, especially those from North America, Europe, and Asia, land here. If you’re planning to explore the North Island, starting in Auckland makes sense.
2. Christchurch Airport (CHC): Located on the South Island, it’s a primary gateway for those looking to explore the southern regions. This includes the Southern Alps, Queenstown, and Fiordland National Park.
3. Wellington Airport (WLG): While it’s the capital city’s airport, it has fewer international connections compared to Auckland and Christchurch. It’s a good entry point if you’re keen on exploring the central parts of the North Island or taking the ferry to the South Island.
4. Queenstown Airport (ZQN): Located in the adventure capital of New Zealand. This airport is ideal for those looking to dive straight into outdoor activities. This includes skiing, bungee jumping, and exploring the nearby fjords.
5. Dunedin Airport (DUD): Situated on the South Island. It’s a smaller entry point but can be convenient for those heading to the southern parts of the island.
6. Rotorua Airport (ROT): While primarily domestic, it has some international flights, mainly from Australia. It’s a great entry point for those looking to experience geothermal activities and Maori culture.

Final Thoughts on New Zealand’s Cheapest Airports

Navigating through the various options and considering the cheapest airports to fly into New Zealand can not only make your journey more cost-effective. It will also introduce you to regions and experiences you might have otherwise overlooked. Each airport, from the bustling hubs of Auckland and Christchurch to the regional gateways like Palmerston North and Nelson, opens up a new realm of possibilities. This invites you to explore the diverse and enchanting landscapes of Aotearoa.

As you plan your journey, consider not only the cost but also the experiences and adventures that await in each destination. New Zealand, with its warm, welcoming spirit, and awe-inspiring landscapes, awaits to enchant, inspire, and create stories that will be retold for years to come.