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 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.
These are our selections for the top airlines flying connecting flights from New Zealand to the UK, based on comfort, frequency and reputation.
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 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.
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 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 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 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 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 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 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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
These are the highest volume routes between New Zealand and the UK, connecting millions of passengers each year.
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.
The top routes from Wellington, New Zealand, to the UK. The most frequent and popular direct flights from Wellington Airport (WLG) are to:
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.
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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.
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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.
