The Best Stopover Flights to New Zealand
Every holiday starts with a flight and there are plenty of options for you to consider when you travel to New Zealand. The most popular choice is to complement a New Zealand holiday with some time in the USA, Asia, Middle East or Australia. So why not give yourself a little city break before you get to the Land of the Long White Cloud?
Los Angeles
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Los Angeles: Air New Zealand
It’s the home of the movies, incredible shopping and California glamour. Los Angeles makes for an ideal stopover when you’re flying out to New Zealand.
Worried about the fact LA is too big a place for a stopover? Never fear, that’s where Flight Centre’s expertise comes in. We have staff on the ground all over the USA so we know the best places to stay and visit for any timeframe. We will arrange everything including all your airport pick-ups or even car hire if you prefer a bit more independence.
San Francisco
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via San Francisco: Virgin Atlantic, Air New Zealand
Cable car tracks carve through the city, linking major attractions and providing iconic transportation. Sourdough cauldrons filled with steaming clam chowder are devoured alongside a smorgasbord of wonderfully fresh seafood dishes. San Francisco is the laid-back bayside city that never fails to entertain. The once bohemian mecca is still packed with character, history and enough vintage clothes shops and trendy eateries to put it high up on the list of must-see attractions in San Fran.
Singapore
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Singapore: Singapore Airlines
Small but perfectly formed, Singapore is the ultimate melting pot, blending cuisines, architecture and art in astonishing style. Once you arrive in the “Little Red Dot”, it’s a breeze to get around, thanks to the city-state’s diminutive size at just 277 square miles and its efficient transport system. Save time – and money – by picking up a Singapore Tourist Pass and rack up unlimited rides on the bus and MRT/LRT trains.
Tokyo
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Tokyo: Virgin Atlantic, Air New Zealand
Tokyo is perfect for a stopover, with the juxtaposition of traditional and modern – past and future in evidence. In just one day you can see the grand old Imperial Palace – home to Japan’s Imperial Family, and continue to a traditional tea ceremony. You can then look at the iconic Meiji Shrine in Meiji Park before heading to the world-famous fashion district of Harajuku. Scale one of the highest skyscrapers in the city and enjoy amazing views of Tokyo.
Shanghai
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Shanghai: Virgin Atlantic, Air New Zealand
Believe it or not, but you can get a flavour for Shanghai on the shortest of stopovers! In just a day you could visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower for a bird's eye view of the city (and a delicious meal, if you fancy it), stroll through the ancient Yu Garden – a classic Chinese garden – and sample delicious street food in Wujiang Road. Not a bad way to break up your journey!
Hong Kong
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Hong Kong: Cathay Pacific
One of Asia’s most prominent cities, Hong Kong is a complex mix of east meets west, where modern life and ancient tradition walk hand-in-hand. Streets are electric with activity, exhilarating markets offer bargains, towering skyscrapers light up the dramatic night skyline and a wealth of attractions beckon you to explore.
Proudly independent, with an inspired Chinese heritage, Hong Kong is so densely packed with things to see and do that you’ll want to come back to visit again and again. Our Travel Consultants can help you make the most of your time – no matter how brief the stopover.
Bangkok
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Bangkok: Thai Airways, Emirates, Qantas
From colonial architecture to rooftop bars and foodie delights, this Southeast Asia stopover destination – with its head-whirling mix of old and new – has it all.
You can choose to see the sights – and there are plenty of treasures to discover in a day or two, or feast in one of the world’s best food cities. You may also decide to experience creative homemade infusions, admire the jaw-dropping views of the city lights of Vertigo and Moon Bar in the Banyan Tree hotel or pay a visit to the revolving observation deck of the Baiyoke Tower II. For first timers, a visit to the mother of all outdoor markets, Chatuchak, is a must. You can also head to Thai design maverick Senada Theory or do some silk shopping at Jim Thompson.
Dubai
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Dubai: Emirates, Qantas
Break up your journey and discover Dubai. Soaring skyscrapers, sensational shopping and seven-star hotels – Dubai is evolving at breathtaking speed. But there’s more to this city than meets the eye…
Dubai is a city of two halves. It boasts a fascinating old centre dotted with traditional coral-stone souks and picturesque minarets, best appreciated during a ride across the Dubai Creek. The modern city has plenty of showstoppers too, standout attractions including the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab Jumeirah seven-star hotel and the cloud-capped Burj Khalifa with jaw-dropping views from its observation decks.
If you have more time to spend, there’s a superb stretch of free beach in Dubai Marina of gorgeous white sand to relax on or you can get away from the city on one of the popular sunset safaris.
Melbourne
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Melbourne: Emirates, Qantas
Built around the banks of the Yarra River, Melbourne is frequently voted the world’s most liveable city, and for good reason. Known as Australia’s style capital, the city is beloved for its independent boutiques, hidden laneways, beautiful beaches and cosmopolitan cafes, all of which are easily accessed via Melbourne’s tram system – the largest in the world.
Melbourne is home to a large number of museums and art galleries, but is also a city that is sports mad; if you’re interested in attending an Australian football game, this is the place to do so. Melbourne has a cosmopolitan population that lends itself to a vibrant dining culture, one that has secured its place at the forefront of the global foodie scene.
Sydney
Which airlines fly to New Zealand via Sydney: Emirates, Qantas
Discover a city that ranks alongside the best when it comes to breathtaking locations: cruise past the world-famous Sydney Opera House, or climb to the top of the vertiginous Harbour Bridge, and you’ll soon understand why. There’s plenty more to explore too. Catch the ferry to laid-back Manly to rack up some beach and bar time, or hit the buzzy area of Five Ways in Paddington for its independent shops, inviting eateries and charming mix of classical and Victorian terrace buildings. Then there’s the legendary Bondi Beach, the place to be for people-watching or catching an Aussie wave. Foodies will find award-winning fare across town, from classic to contemporary, while the vineyards of nearby Hunter Valley are perfect for a tipsy day trip.