Flights from Christchurch to Dunedin

What are the best things to do in Dunedin?

Larnach Castle

When you visit Larnach Castle, you may feel as if you have been transported to rural Scotland. Larnach Castle is the only castle in New Zealand and is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and coastal landscapes. The castle was built in 1871 and features an elaborate Victorian-era design. Visitors to Larnach Castle can take a self-guided tour of the castle and its grounds. A visit to Larnach Castle is not complete without a stroll through the magnificent castle gardens.

Tunnel Beach

Tunnel Beach looks as if it’s straight out of a fairy tale. Its limestone cliffs were carved by the tidal erosion, resulting in striking several arches and caves. After your flights from Christchurch to Dunedin, explore the dramatic coastline along Tunnel Beach. Reach the sand by descending through the rock tunnel responsible for giving the beach its name. While your eye will be drawn to the views along the beach, keep an eye down at the sand – visitors often spot fossils on Tunnel Beach!

Otago Museum

The Otago Museum features more than 1.5 million artefacts, providing visitors with an in-depth look at the Otago region. Following your Christchurch to Dunedin flights, take some time to learn more about the place you are visiting. Within the Otago Museum, visitors can enjoy exhibits ranging from natural history to Maori culture and native plants, as well as regularly rotating temporary exhibits.

Signal Hill

If you’re looking to experience nature without venturing far from the city centre, take a hike up Signal Hill. The hill is located beside Otago Harbour and its summit reaches a height of 393 metres (1,290 feet). The hike takes about an hour and offers sweeping views over Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula coastline.

What are the top tips for travelling with children to Dunedin?

Penguin Place

When your family is travelling on cheap flights from Christchurch to Dunedin, take the kids to the popular Penguin Place. This conservation reserve on the Otago Peninsula is working to help endangered yellow-eyed penguins. Learn more about their conservation efforts and see some penguins by timing your visit with one of the tours held all year round. In addition to yellow-eyed penguins, visitors may also spot some seals or blue penguins while at the reserve.

Taieri Gorge Railway

The Taieri Gorge Railway combines history with an abundance of natural beauty, making it an exciting attraction for both kids and adults. The Taieri Gorge Railway makes a four-and-a-half-hour return journey between Dunedin and Pukerangi. Along the way, passengers can take in the views from either open-air or indoor train carriages as the conductor shares stories about the region. The Taieri Gorge Railway travels over gorges, through tunnels and across plains, showcasing the many landscapes of Otago.

Orokonui Eco Sanctuary

Orokonui Ecosanctuary is located approximately 20 kilometres (12 miles) outside of Dunedin and makes for a great family day trip. The sanctuary covers 307 hectares of land along coastal Otago. While visiting after your Christchurch to Dunedin flights, you’ll see native plants and animals that otherwise would be at risk if they were out in the wild. Some animals you can expect to see include kiwi birds, tuatara and takahe. Several walking trails make their way through Orokonui Eco Sanctuary, many of which are suitable for most ages and abilities.

What is the best time to visit Dunedin?

Dunedin and the wider Otago region experience four distinct seasons, with each season offering a completely different experience to visitors arriving at Dunedin Airport (DUD). If you’re hoping to spend lots of time outdoors, consider booking flights from Christchurch to Dunedin for travel in summer. During these months, Dunedin experiences average daytime temperatures averaging at approximately 18°C. On the other hand, winter travellers planning to book flights from Christchurch to Dunedin will need to brace for the cold. Temperatures average at 9°C during the day, and can regularly drop to about 3°C at night. However, if you enjoy skiing, there are several ski resorts located within easy reach of Dunedin.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn experience mild temperatures, making for pleasant hiking weather. Springtime sees the landscape come to life with flowers blooming and the autumnal cityscape bursts with shades of vibrant foliage. There is no bad time to book cheap flights from Christchurch to Dunedin – it all depends on what type of experience you’re looking to have.
 

Frequently asked questions

How do I get from Christchurch to Dunedin?

The easiest way to get from Christchurch to Dunedin is to book a direct flight. Several services operate between the two destinations daily. If you prefer to travel at a slower pace, you could also choose to hire a car and take the 360 kilometre drive south.

How long is it from Christchurch to Dunedin?

Direct flights from Christchurch to Dunedin are 1 hour 5 minutes in duration.

Can you fly from Christchurch to Dunedin?

Yes, you can fly from Christchurch to Dunedin. Direct flights are available between the two destinations.

Which airlines fly from Christchurch to Dunedin?

Flights between Christchurch and Dunedin are currently serviced by Air New Zealand.