Flights to Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, offers a vibrant blend of culture, scenery, and adventure. Flights to Wellington typically depart from major international hubs such as Auckland, Sydney, and Melbourne, ensuring convenient access. Wellington Airport, located just a short drive from the city centre, provides modern facilities and efficient services for travellers. With its stunning harbour, surrounding hills, and iconic landmarks like Te Papa Museum and Weta Workshop, Wellington promises a memorable experience for visitors. Whether you're seeking outdoor exploration, cultural immersion, or culinary delights, flights to Wellington open the door to an unforgettable journey in the heart of New Zealand.

Airports in Wellington

Airlines flying to Wellington from the UK

• Air New Zealand
• Singapore Airlines
• Emirates
• Qantas Airways
• British Airways (via codeshare or connecting flights)
• Qatar Airways
• Cathay Pacific
• Etihad Airways
• China Airlines
• Virgin Australia

What is the best time to get cheapest flights to Wellington?

The best time to secure the cheapest flights to Wellington typically falls during the shoulder seasons, which are periods just before or after the peak travel seasons. Here are some insights:

• Off-Peak Months: Consider booking flights during the off-peak months of May to September. This period sees fewer tourists due to cooler weather, resulting in potentially lower airfares.
• Avoid Peak Seasons: Avoid booking flights during the peak tourist seasons, which typically coincide with the summer months of December to February. Demand is higher during these times, leading to increased prices.
• Midweek Travel: Flights tend to be cheaper when departing and returning midweek, such as Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Weekends and Mondays often see higher fares due to increased demand from leisure and business travellers.
• Book in Advance: Plan and book your flights well in advance to secure the best deals. Generally, booking 1-3 months before your desired travel dates can help you find cheaper fares.
• Flexible Dates: Be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of any fluctuations in airfare prices. Using fare comparison tools and flexible date search options can help you identify the cheapest days to fly.
• Sign Up for Alerts: Consider signing up for fare alerts from airlines or booking platforms. This way, you'll be notified when there are price drops or special promotions for flights to Wellington.

How long is a direct and indirect flight to Wellington from United Kingdom?

The duration of a direct flight from the United Kingdom to Wellington depends on various factors such as the departure city in the UK and the airline chosen. Typically, direct flights from London to Wellington can take approximately 24 to 26 hours, including a layover in a connecting city such as Singapore, Dubai, or Doha.

Indirect or connecting flights from the UK to Wellington usually have longer durations due to layovers. The total travel time can range from 30 to 40 hours or more, depending on the duration and location of the layover. It's essential to check with airlines and specific flight itineraries for accurate travel durations.

What is the time difference between the United Kingdom and Wellington?

The time difference between the United Kingdom and Wellington, New Zealand, varies depending on the time of year due to daylight saving time changes in both regions. Generally:

• During the UK's daylight-saving time (last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October), Wellington is 12 hours ahead of UK time.
• During the UK's standard time (last Sunday in October to last Sunday in March), Wellington is 13 hours ahead of UK time.

Therefore, when it's 12:00 PM (noon) in the UK during daylight saving time, it's 12:00 AM (midnight) the following day in Wellington. During UK standard time, it's 1:00 AM in Wellington.

How much is a return flight from United Kingdom to Wellington?

The cost of a return flight from the United Kingdom to Wellington can vary significantly based on factors such as the airline, time of booking, class of travel, and travel dates. On average, here are approximate return fares across different classes:

• Economy Class: £700 to £1,200 for off-peak travel periods. £1,200 to £2,000 for peak travel periods and last-minute bookings.
• Premium Economy Class: £1,200 to £2,000 for off-peak travel periods. £2,000 to £3,500 for peak travel periods and last-minute bookings.
• Business Class: £2,500 to £5,000 for off-peak travel periods. £5,000 to £8,000 for peak travel periods and last-minute bookings.
• First Class: £5,000 to £10,000+ for off-peak travel periods. £10,000 to £20,000+ for peak travel periods and last-minute bookings.

Which United Kingdom Airport can I fly to Wellington?

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
• Manchester Airport (MAN)
• Birmingham Airport (BHX)
• Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Glasgow Airport (GLA)

Baggage Allowance on flights to Wellington from the United Kingdom

• Economy Class: Typically, passengers are allowed one or two pieces of checked baggage weighing up to 23kg each. Passengers are usually allowed one carry-on bag plus a personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag. Weight limits for carry-on baggage vary but are usually around 7-10kg.
• Premium Economy Class: Passengers may receive a slightly higher allowance than in Economy Class, often up to two pieces of checked baggage weighing up to 23kg each. Similar to Economy Class, passengers are typically allowed one carry-on bag and a personal item with similar weight limits.
• Business Class: Business Class passengers generally enjoy a more generous checked baggage allowance, often allowing for two or three pieces of checked baggage weighing up to 32kg each. Business Class passengers usually have a higher weight limit for carry-on baggage, often around 10-15kg, and are typically allowed one carry-on bag and a personal item.
• First Class: First Class passengers typically have the most generous checked baggage allowance, often allowing for multiple pieces of checked baggage with higher weight limits, such as up to 32kg each. First Class passengers usually enjoy the highest weight limit for carry-on baggage, often around 15-20kg, and are typically allowed one carry-on bag plus a personal item.

Mini Travel Guide of Wellington, New Zealand

Best Things to Do in Wellington

• Explore Te Papa Tongarewa: Visit New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, to immerse yourself in the country's history, art, and culture.
• Ride the Wellington Cable Car: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbour while riding the historic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Garden.
• Visit Weta Workshop: Discover the magic of filmmaking at Weta Workshop, renowned for its work on The Lord of the Rings and other blockbuster films.
• Stroll along Oriental Parade: Take a leisurely walk along Oriental Parade, a scenic waterfront promenade offering views of the harbour and city skyline.
• Enjoy the Wellington Waterfront: Spend time at the vibrant Wellington Waterfront, lined with restaurants, cafes, art installations, and recreational activities.
• Wander through Cuba Street: Explore Cuba Street, Wellington's eclectic and bohemian hub, known for its unique shops, street art, and lively atmosphere.
• Hike Mount Victoria: Climb to the summit of Mount Victoria for breathtaking panoramic views of Wellington and its surroundings.
• Visit Zealandia: Explore Zealandia, an urban eco-sanctuary dedicated to conserving native New Zealand wildlife and habitat.
• Sample Craft Beer: Experience Wellington's thriving craft beer scene by visiting local breweries, bars, and pubs scattered throughout the city.
• Attend a Performance: Immerse yourself in Wellington's cultural scene by attending a live performance at one of the city's many theatres, music venues, or festivals.

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Wellington

• Wellington Central Business District (CBD): The heart of the city, offering convenient access to major attractions, shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Te Aro: Known for its vibrant nightlife, eclectic cafes, boutique shops, and street art, Te Aro is a lively neighbourhood popular with young professionals and travellers alike.
• Mount Victoria: A charming residential area with stunning views, parks, and walking trails, offering a peaceful retreat close to the city centre.
• Thorndon: Wellington's oldest suburb, home to historic buildings, government offices, and the beautiful Botanic Garden, providing a tranquil and picturesque setting.
• Kelburn: Located near the Botanic Garden and Victoria University, Kelburn offers a mix of residential streets, cultural attractions, and outdoor spaces.
• Miramar: Known as the "Hollywood of Wellington" due to its film industry connections, Miramar is a seaside suburb with a thriving arts scene, scenic coastline, and proximity to Weta Workshop.
• Island Bay: A relaxed coastal neighbourhood with sandy beaches, coastal walks, and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for families and beach lovers.
• Petone: Situated across the harbour from Wellington CBD, Petone offers a historic charm, waterfront dining, boutique shopping, and easy access to nearby attractions like the Hutt Valley and Lower Hutt.
• Lyall Bay: A popular beachside suburb with surf-friendly shores, coastal walks, and a range of dining options, attracting both locals and visitors looking for a relaxed seaside retreat.
• Brooklyn: Nestled in the hills overlooking the city, Brooklyn offers panoramic views, bushwalks, and a sense of community, making it a peaceful and scenic neighbourhood to stay in.

Best Time to Visit Wellington

• Spring (September to November): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring gardens. Witness the city come alive with festivals and events, such as the Wellington Botanic Garden Spring Festival.
• Summer (December to February): Warm and sunny weather, perfect for beach outings and outdoor adventures. Experience vibrant cultural events, including the Wellington Sevens Rugby tournament and the Wellington Fringe Festival. Enjoy alfresco dining, outdoor markets, and live music performances throughout the city.
• Autumn (March to May): Mild temperatures and beautiful foliage colours create a picturesque atmosphere. Take advantage of fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates compared to summer. Attend cultural events like the New Zealand Festival and Wellington Jazz Festival.
• Winter (June to August): Cool temperatures and occasional rain, but still, plenty of indoor attractions and cultural activities. Enjoy cosy cafes, museums, galleries, and theatre performances during the cooler months. Experience the unique charm of Wellington's winter events, such as Wellington on a Plate, a culinary festival celebrating local food and beverages.

Best Hotels to Stay in Wellington

• QT Wellington: A luxurious and stylish hotel located in the heart of Wellington's cultural precinct, offering modern rooms, art installations, and fine dining options.
• InterContinental Wellington: Situated adjacent to the waterfront, this elegant hotel boasts spacious rooms, excellent dining choices, and top-notch service, perfect for both business and leisure travellers.
• Rydges Wellington: Overlooking the harbour, Rydges Wellington offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, and convenient access to the city's attractions.
• Sofitel Wellington: Known for its French-inspired elegance and sophistication, Sofitel Wellington features luxurious rooms, a chic restaurant, and a central location close to popular landmarks.
• West Plaza Hotel: A well-appointed hotel in the CBD, West Plaza Hotel offers comfortable accommodation, friendly service, and easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Bolton Hotel Wellington: A boutique-style hotel offering spacious suites, a stylish restaurant, and a convenient location near the Beehive and Botanic Garden.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington: Set in a historic building, DoubleTree by Hilton Wellington combines modern amenities with old-world charm, featuring well-appointed rooms, a rooftop bar, and a central location.
• James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor: With its central location and stunning views of the city and harbour, James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor offers comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and extensive conference facilities.
• Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay: Overlooking Oriental Bay, this hotel offers contemporary rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to the beach and waterfront promenade.
• Novotel Wellington: Located in the heart of the city, Novotel Wellington features stylish rooms, a vibrant bar, and a fitness centre, catering to both business and leisure travellers.

Best Restaurants to Eat in Wellington

• Logan Brown: Located in a historic bank building, Logan Brown offers fine dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative New Zealand cuisine.
• Ortega Fish Shack & Bar: A popular seafood restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious dishes prepared with locally sourced seafood.
• Hippopotamus Restaurant: Situated in the QT Wellington hotel, Hippopotamus Restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine in an elegant setting, with stunning views of the city.
• Gelissimo Gelateria: A must-visit for gelato lovers, Gelissimo Gelateria serves up a delicious selection of homemade gelato and sorbet flavours, using high-quality ingredients.
• Charley Noble Eatery & Bar: Specialising in wood-fired cooking, Charley Noble offers a menu featuring locally sourced meats, seafood, and vegetables cooked to perfection.
• Whitebait: Set in a beautiful waterfront location, Whitebait serves contemporary New Zealand cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and seasonal produce.
• Field & Green: A cosy bistro serving hearty, comforting dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
• Noble Rot Wine Bar: Known for its extensive wine list and seasonal menu, Noble Rot Wine Bar offers a relaxed dining experience with a focus on wine and food pairing.
• The Larder: A neighbourhood gem in Miramar, The Larder offers a creative menu featuring modern European dishes with a Kiwi twist, using locally sourced ingredients.
• Prefab: A popular cafe and eatery known for its delicious coffee, fresh pastries, and seasonal dishes made with locally sourced produce, served in a stylish industrial-chic space.

How to Travel Within Wellington

• Public Transport: Utilise Wellington's efficient public transport network, including buses and trains operated by Metlink. Purchase a Snapper card for easy and convenient travel on buses and trains.
• Wellington Cable Car: Take a ride on the iconic Wellington Cable Car, which connects Lambton Quay in the CBD to the Botanic Garden in Kelburn. Enjoy scenic views of the city along the way.
• Rideshare Services: Use rideshare services like Uber or Ola for convenient door-to-door transportation within Wellington. Simply download the app, request a ride, and pay electronically.
• Taxi: Hail a taxi from designated taxi stands or book one through a taxi company. Taxis are readily available throughout the city for on-demand transportation.
• Biking: Explore Wellington's bike-friendly streets and dedicated cycle paths by renting a bike from one of the city's bike hire shops. Enjoy the flexibility of cycling at your own pace.
• Ferry: Travel between Wellington and nearby destinations like Days Bay, Matiu/Somes Island, or Eastbourne by taking a ferry from the Wellington waterfront.
• Car Rental: Rent a car from one of the many car rental companies in Wellington to explore the city and its surrounding regions at your own pace. Keep in mind that parking may be limited in some areas.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours: Join a guided hop-on hop-off bus tour to discover Wellington's top attractions and landmarks. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring at your own pace while learning about the city's history and culture.
• Electric Scooters: Rent an electric scooter from one of the scooter-sharing companies operating in Wellington. Zip around the city's streets and waterfront with ease but be sure to follow local regulations and safety guidelines.

Visa Requirements for Wellington, New Zealand

For UK residents visiting Wellington, New Zealand, visa requirements depend on the purpose and duration of the stay. Most UK passport holders can enter New Zealand for up to six months as a visitor without needing a visa. However, it's essential to check current immigration regulations and ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date. For longer stays or specific purposes such as work, study, or residency, you may need to apply for the appropriate visa or permit in advance through the New Zealand Immigration website or consulate.