Flights to Kaikōura, Canterbury from NT$5,308

Christchurch Intl. Airport (CHC) is the only airport serving Kaikoura.

There are a total of 7 air carriers connecting Kaikoura to 22 airports across the world.

Air New Zealand and Jetstar fly often into Kaikoura. Catching an Air New Zealand flight from Auckland is one of the most preferred ways to get there.

With roughly 655 nonstop flights running every week, you’ll be hitting the tarmac in Kaikoura before you have time to say, “Are we there yet?”

Flights to Kaikoura departing from Auckland, Wellington and Nelson airports are in high demand.

Where you depart from determines how much of the in-flight entertainment you’ll get to see. From Auckland to Kaikoura, the average flight time is 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Wellington it’s typically 58 minutes, and from Nelson it’s 55 minutes.

We’ve all come across those travelers who somehow manage to get incredibly cheap fares wherever they go. Want to know how to do it for your Kaikoura vacation? Don’t leave it until the last possible moment to lock in your flight. Don’t stop there, however. Do some research and check if there is more than one airport at your destination. Ticket prices often differ depending on which airport you go for. Don’t forget to compare prices across air carriers as well. Last but not least, another easy way to save some cash is be ready to book fast. If you find an irresistible bargain, don’t hold off — grab it while the opportunity’s there.

We’ve pulled together all the info you need to make your flight a stress-free experience. Follow our tips and you’ll be zooming through the airport and exploring Kaikoura before you know it.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• A plane ride can be easy if you bring the right gear. First of all you’ll need basic toiletries, such as deodorant and a toothbrush, a fresh change of clothes and something to read. Secondly, find room in your carry-on bag for your electronic gadgets, chargers, any vital medications and perhaps a quality neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, be sure to take your passport, travel documents and your credit cards.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Leave all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any gels or liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like a pocket knife, and dangerous products which are explosive or flammable, such as aerosols and gasoline, are also banned.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of your aircraft are no fashion runway. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and pack a sweater as it can get quite cool inside the cabin on long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also a wise idea.
• Most travelers have heard about DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a blood clotting condition caused by long periods of inactivity. There’s lots you can do to minimize your risk. Wear a good-quality pair of compression socks or tights, stay well hydrated and keep your legs and feet moving. Walk the aisles of the cabin or perform some stretches in your seat.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be organized before you get to the airport security gate. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Kaikoura in a flash. Follow these tips and get your vacation off to a terrific start:

• Be sure to keep your passport and boarding pass within close reach. They’re the first items you’ll be asked for by airport security.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage will be X-rayed. To speed things up, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your jacket, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your tablet and phone, will also need to be scanned separately.
• Remember to remove gels and liquids from your hand luggage. They often need to be sent through the X-ray machine separately. Each item should be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and everything must fit in a quart-size (one liter), clear zip-lock bag.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you’re less likely to be required to remove them when passing through security. Big boots and heavier-style shoes are usually subjected to extra screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp or pointed objects, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won’t be allowed on board and will be confiscated.