Flights from Sydney, Australia to Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch, known for its English heritage, is located on the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island. While many of the city’s stone-built buildings were damaged in earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, there is still much to see and do in the city. The Christchurch Art Gallery and Quake City are two favorites with tourists, while the Botanic Gardens are particularly impressive in spring, but worth a visit any time of year. The city also offers a rich array of dining opportunities and plenty of beer to taste.

Flying to Christchurch

1. Which Airports serve Sydney to Christchurch?

The main airport in Sydney is Kingsford Smith International Airport, and it is from here that flights to Christchurch take off, landing at the city’s Christchurch International Airport. Kingsford Smith is one of the world’s busiest airports, while Christchurch International is New Zealand’s second-busiest airport.

2. Which Airlines operate flights from Sydney to Christchurch?

Air New Zealand is the primary service provider for direct flights from Sydney to Christchurch. Qantas and Virgin Australia also provide direct flights on a daily basis. Other airlines, including China Southern, Jetstar, and Singapore, also provide daily flights but require connections. Cathay also offers some additional flights to Christchurch.

3. How long is the flight?

A direct flight from Sydney to Christchurch takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes. Flights requiring connections take a minimum of approximately 6 hours. Sydney is two hours behind Christchurch.

4. Climate changes between Sydney and Christchurch

Christchurch has a cool winter from June to August with a mild summer from December to March. There is a regular moderate rainfall throughout the year. Sydney is a good deal warmer throughout the year and does not receive as much rain as Christchurch.

5. Culture differences and need-to-know

In both Sydney and Christchurch, the main language is English. The currency in Sydney is the Australian Dollar, while in Christchurch the currency is the New Zealand Dollar. It can be acquired at most Christchurch banks, international airports, hotels and at Bureau de Change kiosks. Credit cards such as Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted and can be used at ATMs to obtain currency.

Many passport holders are not required to obtain a visa when entering New Zealand for tourism purposes and will be permitted to stay for a period not exceeding 90 days.

Christchurch Information

There is a great deal to see and do in and around Christchurch. The Christchurch Art Gallery provides a mix of local and international exhibitions, while Quake City tells the story of the Canterbury earthquakes and their impact through a variety of media. The Tannery is a recently converted 19th-century tannery that is packed with shopping opportunities.

Smash Palace and Pomeroy’s Old Brewery Inn are two popular stops for those looking to try some local beer, while the Botanic Gardens provides 30 hectares of relaxing green space. The city also offers a unique selection of dining options, including Supreme Supreme, Little High Eatery, Gatherings and Twenty Seven Steps.