Compare Cheap Auckland to Cairns Flights
Longing for a trip to the tropics? Book return flights from Auckland to Cairns! It's the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, boasts lush rainforests and is home to world-class fine dining. Learn about Australia's Indigenous culture at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park or go on a Dreamtime walk through Mossman Gorge past secluded ceremonial sites. With a non-stop flight time of 5 hours 35 minutes’ from Auckland, Cairns is a great holiday destination for adventurous Kiwis looking to swap New Zealand's winters for a warm tropical climate.
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When is the best time to visit Cairns?
The best time to visit Cairns is between April and September. It's the city's shoulder season and you'll miss the summer crowds. Hotels slash their prices and cheap flights from Auckland and Cairns are easier to find. On a tight budget? Plan to book Auckland to Cairns flights to arrive in February or March. Airlines, hotels and tour providers will drop their prices just after the peak holiday period, making it a more affordable time for adventure seekers. The busiest time of year in Cairns is from December to January. Hotels and airlines raise their rates to meet the demand and you'll have to contend with crowds at the city's top attractions.
What should you know about departing from Auckland?
Auckland International Airport (AKL) is the largest and busiest airport in New Zealand. It connects passengers to 26 domestic and 48 international destinations around the world. The airport offers several direct flights from Auckland to Cairns with Air New Zealand. Other airlines with flights from Auckland, such as Qantas and Jetstar, offer connecting routes via Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney.
Getting to Auckland Airport
The best way to get to Auckland Airport ahead of your Auckland to Cairns flights is with the SkyBus. It runs from Auckland's CBD to the departure terminals 24 hours a day. A one-way trip costs $18NZD per person. The 380 Airporter bus operates from the city to the international terminal, seven days a week. An adult ticket costs $11NZD with an AT HOP card. Local bus route 31 also runs from the CBD to the airport between 7am and 7pm every day. You can also take a metered taxi or an Uber to Auckland Airport. A one-way trip will cost up to $75NZD.
Parking at Auckland Airport
Auckland Airport offers a variety of convenient parking options. Whether you're travelling on cheap flights from Auckland to Cairns for the day, a week or longer, you'll be able to find an option that suits your budget.
Where to Park at Auckland Airport
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Economy parking is perfect for travellers that want convenience at an affordable price. Day rates start at about $40NZD.
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Standard parking offers uncovered options within walking distance of the check-in counters. A three-day stay will cost you about $100NZD or $43NZD for the first 24 hours.
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Executive parking is the best option for travellers that don't want to waste time at the airport. You'll have access to valet parking, grooming services, and extra-wide parking bays. Prices start at $55NZD per day.
What should you know about arriving in Cairns?
Cairns Airport is the seventh busiest airport in Australia. It serves direct flights to 30 domestic and 18 international destinations. The airport is a hub for Jetstar Airlines and a focus city for Qantas.
How to get from Cairns Airport to your Cairns hotel or accommodation
Cairns Airport is located seven kilometres from the Cairns city centre. The cheapest way to get to your hotel after your Auckland to Cairns flights is with the Airport Connect Bus. It costs $4AUD to go from the arrival terminal to the Sheridan Street bus stop. From there you can transfer to a local bus heading into town for as little as $2.20AUD per person. The airport also offers a door-to-door shuttle service to select hotels and hostels in Cairns. Fares start from $15AUD per person. If you don't want to waste time getting to your hotel, you can grab a metered taxi outside of the terminal building. Alternatively, you can request a ride with Uber and meet your driver at the pickup zone. Cairns Airport also offers car rental. You'll find six companies to choose from inside the Arrivals Hall. Pre-book your car or select from what's available when you arrive.
What are the top things to do in Cairns?
Visit the Great Barrier Reef
It’s the most popular thing to do in Cairns. The UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Go to the Daintree Rainforest
Cairns is home to another World Heritage Site - a 180 million-year-old rainforest. The best way to explore Daintree Rainforest is onboard the Kuranda Scenic railway - one of the region’s most iconic experiences.
Go bungy jumping
Jump off Cairn’s 50-metre high AJ Hackett Bungy before you head home on your flights from Cairns to Auckland. If that’s too tame for you, try the giant 45-metre swing that reaches speeds of 120 km/h.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from Auckland to Cairns?
Direct flights between Auckland and Cairns are approximately 5 hours 30 minutes in duration. Non-direct flights are more than 8 hours 10 minutes in length but differ depending on the flight route and airline chosen.
Which airlines fly from Auckland to Cairns?
Several airlines, including Qantas, Jetstar and Air New Zealand currently fly from Auckland to Cairns.
When is the cheapest time to travel from Auckland to Cairns?
The cheapest time to travel to Cairns from Auckland is during the city’s wet season, which falls between November and March. Outside the Christmas holidays and Australian school holidays, you should be able to secure a great deal on flights to Cairns.
