from $363
11 May, 2026
from $290
07 May, 2026
from $486
29 April, 2026
from $472
27 April, 2026
from $520
14 April, 2026
Destination Profile
With the snow-capped Southern Alps serrating the horizon and the sloshing Pacific rolling into its coves, Christchurch is a fine introduction to the wild nature of NZ's South Island. But before you depart for the adventure mecca of Queenstown or the whale-splashed seas of Kaikoura, there's lots to explore right outside the airport terminal. Hailed as the Garden City for its abundance of parks, Christchurch offers quaint English-style flower displays and river-babbling green spaces. There's a rejuvenated center awash with boutique shops, museums, and coffee roasteries. And the surroundings are all Canterbury vineyards and hiking trails. Cheap flights to Christchurch from Australia often go nonstop, taking just over three hours in the air.
You can hike extinct volcanic craters over to the charming little fishing town of Lyttleton, where cute cafés and art galleries abound.
See why Christchurch is called the Garden City by taking a trip to the huge lawns, botanical gardens, and punt-topped waterways of lovely North Hagley Park.
Find fishing piers, fairground rides, and roaring surf on the long strip of sand that is New Brighton Beach.
Right now, the most affordable month to take a flight to Christchurch is May/2026. You will pay the most in January/2027.
Emirates, Qantas, Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia and Jetstar fly direct between Australia and Christchurch.
The cheapest airline to fly from Australia to Christchurch is Jetstar.
The best airline to fly between Australia and Christchurch is Singapore Airlines. If you want direct flights then Emirates is the best. Jetstar is the best budget airline.