Airlines that Fly from Queenstown to Invercargill
While there are no airlines that currently make the direct flight from Queenstown to Invercargill, you can easily travel between the two cities with a stopover. Air New Zealand flights are available to book with Webjet and will get you from Queenstown to Invercargill in about three hours, often using Christchurch as the stopover city.
Top Experiences for Visitors
Explore the Catlins
The Catlins is a scenic region to the east of Invercargill, right on the border between Southland and Otago. There’s plenty of Maori history to discover, and the Catlins is also teeming with some of the most stunning landscapes in the Invercargill area. Can’t-miss spots include Nugget Point, Curio Bay, Cathedral Caves, and McLean Falls. While you’re visiting the Catlins, keep your eyes peeled for some local wildlife as well – fur seals, sea lions, penguins, Hector’s dolphins, and a variety of bird species can be spotted.
Chase the Southern Lights
If you’re planning a winter visit to Southland, try your luck at spotting the Southern Lights. The colourful phenomenon happens when solar particles interact with gases in the atmosphere, causing colourful lights to dance across the night sky. You’re most likely to spot the Southern Lights by travelling from Queenstown to Invercargill between April and September.
Visit Bill Richardson’s Transport World
Bill Richardson’s Transport World is a unique attraction to visit if you’re into cars or anything vintage. The museum showcases the largest collection of its kind and has more than 300 antique cars on display. Visitors can also step back in time at an old-timey movie theatre, browse household items that were commonplace during your grandparents’ or great grandparents’ childhoods, and walk through replica city streets as they would have looked during Victorian times.
The Best Time to Visit Invercargill
The weather in Invercargill ranges from a chilly winter to a mild summer. Summer is generally the best time to travel to Invercargill and Southland, especially if you’re looking to spend a good portion of time outside. Summer allows you to experience the region to the fullest with daytime temperatures reaching highs of about 19°C – you can comfortably enjoy the beaches, coastal walks, national parks, and other outdoor activities.
You’ll also get nice weather in autumn and spring when temperatures reach highs of about 13° to 17°C. While it may be too cold for the beach, these are great seasons for hiking in the Catlins and enjoying a drive along the Southern Scenic Route. You’ll also come across fewer tourists compared to the summer high season.
If you don’t mind bundling up, there are a couple benefits to travelling from Queenstown to Invercargill in the winter. It’s the low season, so you’re likely to find cheaper rates on hotel rooms than during the other seasons. You’ll also have the best chance at spotting the Southern Lights in the colder months. Just come prepared for winter weather – the days reach highs of about 10°C, but evenings often dip to around 1°C, and snow is common.
FAQ
What airlines offer flights from Queenstown to Invercargill?
It isn’t possible to fly directly from Queenstown to Invercargill. However, you can book an Air New Zealand flight between the two cities which includes a stopover.
What is the best way to get around Invercargill?
Invercargill’s CBD is easy to get around on foot, but you’ll enjoy the most freedom by hiring a car for your trip. You can reserve a rental car with Webjet after booking your Queenstown to Invercargill flights.
When is the best time of year to visit Invercargill?
Summer is generally viewed as the best time to visit Invercargill and the Southland region. Temperatures are at their warmest, so you can enjoy plenty of time outdoors. The nearby national parks, coastal walks, and scenic drives are also beautiful in early autumn and late spring.
How much does it cost to travel from Queenstown to Invercargill?
Queenstown to Invercargill flights start at about $130 NZD each way when you book with Webjet.
