Cheap Flights to Canterbury from $495

Traveling to Canterbury is easy, with various options for flights to Christchurch that cater to different budgets and schedules. You can compare journey times and find cheap flights to Christchurch or choose full-service airlines that suit your plans for exploring the area's renowned attractions. Popular spots include Aoraki / Mount Cook, perfect for adventure and stunning scenery, Lake Tekapo, ideal for romantic outdoor experiences, and Sumner Beach, a great destination for beach lovers.

• Major airport in Canterbury: Christchurch International Airport (CHC) serving Christchurch
• Flights per week: 240+ flights arriving at Canterbury airport
• Number of airlines that fly to Canterbury: around 10+ carriers

Popular airport in Canterbury

Canterbury is a picturesque region perfect for outdoor vacations, offering stunning scenery, beach escapes, adventure, and romance. Travelers are drawn to its natural beauty, and access is convenient with a major airport serving the area.

• Christchurch International Airport (CHC): Situated in the Christchurch District of Canterbury, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel. It connects passengers to approximately 6 domestic cities and 25 international destinations. Travelers have the option to upgrade to business class for enhanced service, depending on the specific routes and airlines. Notable carriers at this airport include Jetstar, Air New Zealand, and Qantas Airways.

Top routes to Canterbury

• Auckland (AKL) to Christchurch (CHC), with one-way tickets available from around $40
• Sydney (SYD) to Christchurch (CHC), with one-way airfare from around $210
• Wellington (WLG) to Christchurch (CHC), with one-way flights starting at around $30
• Queenstown (ZQN) to Christchurch (CHC), with one-way flights starting at around $70
• Melbourne (MEL) to Christchurch (CHC), with one-way tickets available from around $180

Cheapest routes to Canterbury

• Wellington (WLG) to Christchurch (CHC), with cheap one-way fares from around $30
• Hamilton (HLZ) to Christchurch (CHC), with affordable one-way prices from around $35
• Auckland (AKL) to Christchurch (CHC), with cheap one-way fares from around $40
• Queenstown (ZQN) to Christchurch (CHC), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $70
• Nelson (NSN) to Christchurch (CHC), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $75

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Best time to fly to Canterbury

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Canterbury are January, February, and March, when peak temperatures in Canterbury can reach up to 62.1°F in January. If you prefer quieter travel, consider August, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 45.5°F. For better deals, November usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $261, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? June and February offer average one-way fares of around $282, making them good options for flexible travelers.

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Canterbury

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Canterbury is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
2. Set up price alerts—stay up to date on fare changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Canterbury hotel and flight deals.
4. Travel during shoulder season-peak travel periods tend to push the flight fares a little higher than usual. Traveling outside of these busy periods can help you find more competitive prices while still being able to enjoy good weather and lesser crowds.
5. Be flexible with your travel dates-if your schedule allows it, try and search for a few different departure and return dates as this may help you find lower fares.
6. Consider economy fares-if you're traveling light and don't need extras like seat selection or additional baggage, opting for a basic economy fare can be a simple way to keep costs down. Just make sure to check what's included in the flight ticket before confirming your booking.
7. Think about luggage—it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
8. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book with Expedia. Make sure to select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking to get more value from your trip.

*For members. Select hotels.

Where to stay in Canterbury

• Tekapo: Located in the area of Canterbury, Tekapo is a stunning suburb famed for its breathtaking outdoor scenery and romantic experiences. Visitors flock here to explore the beautiful Lake Tekapo, the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd, and the rejuvenating Tekapo Springs hot springs. Adventure seekers can hike to the Mount John Lookout for panoramic views, while others may enjoy leisurely strolls through the national state park. Whether you're seeking relaxation or an outdoor adventure, Tekapo is a delightful destination all year round.
• Avonhead: Situated around the area of Canterbury, Avonhead is a vibrant suburb that offers a mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions. This area is perfect for those looking to explore the University of Canterbury's historic campus or enjoy a day at Hagley Park, ideal for picnics and outdoor fun. For entertainment, Wolfbrook Arena provides a lively venue for events. With its accessible shopping areas and educational opportunities, Avonhead is a wonderful spot for families and adventurers alike.
• Tai Tapu: Tai Tapu is located in the area of Canterbury and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The suburb offers access to scenic trails and stunning landscapes, including nearby hills and the picturesque Lyttelton Harbour. Travelers can immerse themselves in nature at Lincoln University or enjoy family time at Wolfbrook Arena. Tai Tapu is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the region, making it a fantastic destination for exploration at any time of the year.

Tips for short-haul flights to Canterbury

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

• Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also allows you to bypass the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
• Early check in—most airlines allow you to check in online at least 24 to 48 hours before your flight departs. This convenience can save you time at the airport and increase your chances of securing a preferred seat at no extra charge.
• Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book to keep yourself engaged. Be sure to charge your devices fully before you board.
• Arrive early—for even short flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account potential traffic and security lines.
• Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed and save money while at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Canterbury

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

• Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow seat selection for free once online check-in opens, typically 24 to 48 hours before your flight. While some airlines may permit earlier seat selection, it might come with an additional fee.
• Arrive early—aim to be at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
• Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access.
• Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Try to either sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.
• Dress comfortably—as the journey will be long, opt for loose-fitting, comfortable clothing and layers, since cabin temperatures can fluctuate.
• Stay hydrated—bring a refillable water bottle and be sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated, ensuring you feel your best upon arrival.

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