Cheap flights from Christchurch to Auckland International

Flying out of Christchurch

There are other airports in this region of New Zealand, but Christchurch International is the only one within 100km of this city. Also known as Harewood Airport, it's been in operation since 1940, and became New Zealand's first international airport in 1950. It's only one of two airports that can handle bigger aircraft, like the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380, the other one being Auckland Airport. These two airports handle the bulk of international and regional airline traffic to, from, and within the network of islands that make up New Zealand.

Increased interest in travel and tourism, thanks in no small part to director Peter Jackson and certain blockbuster movie franchises, led to in-depth redevelopment and expansion that included a whole new terminal. National carrier Air New Zealand was the official airline of Middle Earth. Construction went on for six years, starting in 2006 and completed by 2012, the same year that Air New Zealand developed a safety video parody that featured hobbits, orcs, and elves. The basic design of the new terminal remained the same as the old one that was torn down: one convenient terminal to handle both domestic and international departures, including security facilities and a large retail area on the first floor.

Airlines that Fly from Christchurch to Auckland International

There's plenty of traffic between these two busy airports, but this particular route is shared by only two carriers, national carrier Air New Zealand and Jetstar Air, a low-cost airline based in Melbourne, Australia, but flying several Kiwi routes. There are several advantages to flying with either airline.

• Air New Zealand

  The country's flagship airline has more options for frequent flyers and connecting options, like access to upscale Air New Zealand airport lounges and more generous options when it comes to seating. Air New Zealand is also one of Air Canada's codeshare partners, and you might be able to use some of those Air Canada perks or miles on an Air New Zealand flight.

• Jetstar Air

  The low-cost regional option behind other local airlines like Air Chatham, this is the no-frills option for budget travelers or commuters. All regional flights have a single class of service on board, the cost of which is paid separately from your ticket either when booking or during the flight.

Auckland International Airport Transportation Options

Once you arrive at your destination, the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand, there are a number of different options available, whether you're connecting to another flight or heading into the city or outlying countryside. Flights from Christchurch arrive in the domestic terminal, and there is shuttle service available if you need to catch an international flight.

• Driving

  Connect to the airport using either State Highway 20A or 20B, the most direct route between the airport and downtown Auckland.

• Public Transport

  No rail lines run to the airport yet, although some routes are in the planning stages. In the meantime, the Skybus Express and the 380 Airporter bus can take you to downtown Auckland or between the international and domestic airport terminals

• Cycling

  There are several bike paths that connect the surrounding suburbs and residential areas to the airport of both the paved and gravel variety. Take in some of that verdant scenery before embarking on that road that goes ever on and on.