Flights from Christchurch to Nelson

What should I know before visiting Nelson?

Nelson is one of the sunniest spots in New Zealand

Although it’s located on the South Island, Nelson is one of the sunniest cities you can visit in New Zealand. In 2018, it topped the list of sunniest NZ cities with an impressive 2555 hours of bright sunshine. While the summer months are the sunniest, you’ll also experience plenty of sunshine if you plan to book cheap flights from Christchurch to Nelson in winter.

Nelson is the hub for many major attractions

When you arrive on Christchurch to Nelson flights, you’ll be within reach of many popular tourist hubs. If you base yourself in the city, you can plan day trips to spots such as the Marlborough wine region, Abel Tasman National Park, and Nelson Lakes National Park.

The Nelson region is known as a ‘cycling mecca’

If you’re a cycling or mountain biking enthusiast, consider renting bikes before you head home on your Nelson to Christchurch flights. Two of the 22 Great Rides in NZ are based just outside Nelson, and a third is nearby in the Marlborough region. These rides are the Coppermine Trail, Tasman’s Great Taste Trail, and Queen Charlotte Track. Other great mountain biking trails are located throughout Abel Tasman National Park and the nearby Kahurangi National Park.

Nelson has a prominent craft beer scene

For decades, the Nelson region was known for wine due to its proximity to the Marlborough wine region. However, in recent years, a craft beer scene has begun to emerge. When you’re thinking about what to see and do while travelling using cheap flights from Christchurch to Nelson, plan to try some of the locally-brewed craft beers at Bays Brewery, Eddyline Brewery, and McCashin’s Brewery.

What are the top things to do when travelling with children to Nelson?

Cable Bay Adventure Park

Nelson is one of the adventure hubs of NZ, and there are many thrill-seeking activities to enjoy after Christchurch to Nelson flights. For family-friendly adventures, spend a day at Cable Bay Adventure Park. This park is located a short distance north of the city on the banks of the Wakapuaka River. While visiting Cable Bay Adventure Park, explore the nature of the region with quad bikes or on horseback. Other activities include paintballing, archery, and the opportunity to feed and pat local animals. True thrill-seekers will also enjoy riding the Skywire – the longest Flying Fox in the world. Groups of four people can even ride the Skywire together!

Rent kayaks or paddle boards in Abel Tasman National Park

The Abel Tasman is one of the most iconic places to visit after flights Christchurch to Nelson. It is teeming with activities the whole family will love. One of the best ways to experience the park after cheap flights to Nelson from Christchurch is by getting out on the water with kayaks or paddle boards. The bays and beaches throughout the Abel Tasman are incredibly scenic, and seeing these sites from the water offers a new perspective. Landmarks to experience by kayak or paddle board in the Abel Tasman include Adele Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Split Apple Rock, and Kaiteriteri Beach. Visitors with Christchurch to Nelson flights will even get the opportunity to see local marine life such as seals and dolphins from the Abel Tasman waterways.

Founders Park

Founders Park is one of the top places to visit as a family after arriving in Nelson. While exploring Founders Park, you’ll likely feel as though you have stepped back in history. It’s a museum that is set up as a small village and displays what the city was like when it was settled in the mid-19th century. Visitors who fly from Christchurch to Nelson can ride an old-fashioned train, learn about Nelson’s cycling history, climb into the Merchant Buccaneer plane, and view maritime artefacts at the Port Museum. There is also a handful of locally-made artisan products you can browse in Founders Park, such as Victorian-era fashions, freshly-baked cookies and handmade jewellery.

How much time should I spend in Nelson?

With direct flights arriving in less than an hour, Nelson is a great place to go for a weekend getaway. To get an introduction to the city and surrounding region, plan to stay for about three days. Base yourself in the city and take a day trip or two to experience the stunning nature around the Nelson region. For a more immersive escape, plan to fly from Christchurch to Nelson for about a week. Spend a couple of days in the city, then rent a car and explore the national parks and vineyards nearby. Rental cars can be booked through Webjet to pick up from Nelson Airport (NSN).

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to fly from Christchurch to Nelson?

Direct flights from Christchurch to Nelson are approximately 55 minutes in duration.

Are there direct flights from Christchurch to Nelson?

Yes, direct flights are available between Christchurch and Nelson.

How many airlines fly direct from Christchurch to Nelson?

Air New Zealand is the only airline currently offering direct flights between Christchurch and Nelson.