Flights from New Zealand to the United Kingdom

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Fly to the UK from New Zealand

Looking to swap 'kia ora' for 'how do you do' and a 'toodle pip'? We have put together a travel guide for those looking to fly to the opposite side of the globe and visit the land of tea, fish and chips, and much more. Read on to find out about the top airlines, top destinations, and how you can spread the cost of your flights.✈️💸

The best time to book flights from New Zealand to the UK

The best time to book flights from New Zealand to the UK is typically during the off-season, with prices generally being lowest in January, February, and October.

While there can be some variation, booking your ticket at least four weeks in advance and avoiding peak travel times like the UK's summer (June-August) and the lead-up to Christmas can lead to significant savings. Being flexible with your travel dates and checking for special deals or "earlybird" specials can also help you find the most affordable fares.

Top Airlines Flying to the UK from New Zealand

These are our selections for the top airlines flying connecting flights from New Zealand to the UK, based on comfort, frequency and reputation.

Emirates

Who is Emirates?

Emirates is a top choice for this route, known for its extensive network and premium service. Based in Dubai, its hub at Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a convenient and popular stopover point. Emirates has a strong reputation for high-quality service, particularly in business and first class.

Emirates flights to the UK

Emirates operates daily flights from Auckland (AKL) to various UK airports, primarily London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). The most common route is a one-stop journey through its hub in Dubai (DXB). Flights typically depart Auckland in the evening, arriving in Dubai the next morning. After a layover, a connecting flight then takes you on to the UK, with the total travel time often ranging from 25 to 30 hours, depending on the layover duration.

Emirates' Fleet

The airline operates a modern fleet, including the large Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft, which are praised for their spacious cabins, comfortable seating, and state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment system, "ice."

Skytrax Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Qatar Airways

Who is Qatar Airways?

Qatar Airways consistently ranks among the world's best airlines and is a strong contender for travel between New Zealand and the UK. Its hub at Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha is known for being a modern and luxurious facility. The airline is celebrated for its exceptional cabin crew and high standards of service. It's particularly lauded for its premium cabins, including the award-winning Qsuite in Business Class, which offers a private and customizable experience.

Qatar Airways flights to the UK

Qatar Airways offers frequent services from Auckland (AKL) to the UK via its hub in Doha (DOH). The airline usually operates daily flights, with a single stopover in Doha. Flights generally depart Auckland in the afternoon or evening and arrive in Doha the same day (local time), with a connecting flight to London Heathrow (LHR) or other UK destinations. Total journey times vary but are often around 24 to 28 hours.

Qatar Airways' Fleet

Qatar Airways operates a modern and diverse fleet, primarily composed of wide-body aircraft for its long-haul international routes. The core of its fleet includes the advanced Airbus A350, the versatile Boeing 777 (many equipped with the award-winning Qsuite), and the comfortable Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The airline also uses the superjumbo Airbus A380 on select high-demand routes.

Skytrax Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Singapore Airlines

Who is Singapore Airlines?

Singapore Airlines has a long-standing reputation for being one of the world's best carriers. Its strategic hub at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) is consistently rated as one of the best in the world, making the layover experience a highlight of the journey. They have won numerous awards for their cabin crew, in-flight entertainment, and food. The airline is particularly well-regarded in both its premium and economy cabins, with even economy passengers receiving amenities like a hot towel service.

Singapore Airlines flights to the UK

Singapore Airlines connects New Zealand to the UK with a popular route through its hub at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN). The airline provides daily flights from Auckland (AKL) to London Heathrow (LHR) and Manchester (MAN). The flights typically depart Auckland in the afternoon, with a layover in Singapore before continuing to the UK. This one-stop journey is a frequent choice for travellers due to the highly rated facilities and comfort of Singapore's airport. Total travel time is generally in the range of 25 to 30 hours.

Singapore Airlines' fleet

Singapore Airlines is renowned for operating one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the industry, primarily consisting of wide-body aircraft suited for its extensive long-haul network. The backbone of its fleet is the technologically advanced Airbus A350, including a unique ultra-long-range variant for non-stop flights. The airline is also a major operator of the Airbus A380 and the Boeing 777-300ER, both known for their premium cabin products. For medium and short-haul routes, Singapore Airlines has incorporated the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and Boeing 737 MAX, ensuring a consistent and comfortable experience across its entire route map.

Skytrax Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Top Routes From New Zealand to the UK

These are the highest volume routes between New Zealand and the UK, connecting millions of passengers each year.

Routes from Auckland

The top and most frequent flight routes from Auckland, New Zealand, to the UK. These routes are highly popular for both business and leisure travel due to their proximity and the strong ties between the two countries.

Via Dubai (DXB): This is arguably the most common and popular route, primarily serviced by Emirates. It offers a convenient stopover in the airline's hub, connecting passengers to a wide range of UK airports, most notably London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW).
Via Singapore (SIN): A close second in popularity, this route is mainly operated by Singapore Airlines and is highly regarded for the quality of both the airline and the airport itself. Singapore's Changi Airport is a major hub with world-class facilities, making for a comfortable layover before the final leg to the UK.
Via Doha (DOH): This route is dominated by Qatar Airways and is known for its high standard of service and a modern, efficient airport. It offers excellent connections to London and other UK cities.
Via North America (e.g., Los Angeles LAX or San Francisco SFO): This route is popular with travellers who may want to combine their trip with a visit to the United States. Air New Zealand is the primary operator on this route, often in codeshare partnerships with US airlines like United or American Airlines.
Via Hong Kong (HKG): This route is a popular choice, primarily offered by Cathay Pacific. While the geopolitical situation has sometimes impacted travel, the route through Hong Kong has historically been a reliable and efficient way to connect from New Zealand to the UK.

Routes from Wellington

The top routes from Wellington, New Zealand, to the UK. The most frequent and popular direct flights from Wellington Airport (WLG) are to:

Via Australia (e.g., Sydney or Melbourne): This is a very common route. Passengers take a short flight from Wellington to a major Australian hub like Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL), often on airlines like Air New Zealand or Qantas. From there, they connect to a long-haul flight to the UK on airlines like Emirates, Qantas, or British Airways.
Via Auckland (AKL): Many travellers from Wellington fly to Auckland on a domestic leg before connecting to a major international flight. This allows them to access the broader network of airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines, which offer frequent flights from Auckland to their respective hubs in the Middle East and Asia.
Via Dubai (DXB): While Emirates does not fly directly out of Wellington, you can book a single itinerary that includes a domestic leg from Wellington to Auckland, followed by the main flight to Dubai and then on to the UK. This is a popular and well-established route.
Via Singapore (SIN): Similar to the Dubai route, this option involves a flight from Wellington to Auckland, often on Air New Zealand, before connecting to a Singapore Airlines flight to Singapore and then to the UK.
Via North America (e.g., Los Angeles LAX): This is another option, though typically less common than the Middle Eastern or Asian routes. It involves flying from Wellington to a major U.S. city like Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO) before continuing to the UK. This route is often serviced by airlines like Air New Zealand in partnership with other carriers.

Other Routes

Beyond the most common routes through the Middle East and Southeast Asia, several other popular flight paths connect New Zealand to the UK, typically involving a single stopover.

Via North America: A number of airlines, most notably Air New Zealand in partnership with carriers like United or Air Canada, offer routes with a stop in a major North American city. Popular layover cities include Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), and Vancouver (YVR). This route is often chosen by travellers who wish to visit the United States or Canada as part of their journey.
Via Hong Kong (HKG): Cathay Pacific provides a well-established and efficient route through its hub in Hong Kong. This option is popular for its high-quality service and the opportunity to experience a stopover in a vibrant and dynamic city.
Via China: Airlines such as China Southern and China Eastern offer competitive fares with a stop in cities like Guangzhou (CAN) or Shanghai (PVG). While the layover airports may not have the same reputation as those in Singapore or Dubai, these routes can often be a more budget-friendly option.
Via Malaysia (KUL): Malaysia Airlines offers a one-stop service via Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). This route is a solid alternative, providing a convenient stopover in a modern hub with good connections to the UK.

Buy Now Pay Later Flights to the UK

Journeys around the world can be expensive, but Alternative Airlines is here with a solution. By using Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) you can make your trip less financially straining by dividing your payment into smaller, more budget-friendly instalments.

Most plans offer interest-free payments if you pay within a certain period - making it feel easier on your wallet compared to more traditional payment methods. Why not try one of our favourites today? We work with payment providers such as Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna, Clearpay and Zip.

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Flights to the United Kingdom from New Zealand FAQs

Which airlines offer flights from New Zealand to the UK?

Because there are no direct flights from New Zealand to the UK, the top airlines for this long-haul journey are those that offer the most efficient and comfortable one-stop connections. The leading airlines for this route are Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines, all of which are highly regarded for their service and modern fleets.

How can I find affordable flights to the UK?

At Alternative Airlines we have the Best Fare Finder tool to search and buy the cheapest flights in one simple, secure transaction. We also have a simple and easy flight search bar.

How frequent are flights from New Zealand to the UK?

Flights from New Zealand to the UK are very frequent, though all are connecting flights due to the long distance. Airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines offer multiple daily services from major hubs like Auckland, providing a wide array of choices for a one-stop journey. Emirates, for example, provides numerous weekly connecting flights, while Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines also maintain a strong daily presence on this route.

This high frequency is a result of the route's popularity, ensuring travellers have numerous options for departure times and layover cities to fit their schedules.