Flights from Perth to Christchurch

The best time to visit Christchurch

The summer months from November to February are a popular time for travellers to visit Christchurch. Book cheap airfares from Perth to Christchurch for this time and enjoy the warm weather, one of the more than 40 nearby beaches, or hit the pavement in this city buzzing with activity. Summer is also peak season, so flights and accommodation are more pricey. September to November heralds the spring season - and a good time to book cheap flight and accommodation deals. Visitors can take in the horticultural highlights and skip the crowds at popular attractions. During autumn (March to May), Christchurch pulls out the stops with glorious orange, red and yellow foliage as well as bargain flights and travel packages. Winter sports devotees often head to Christchurch in June to August to hit the ski slopes and chill out in the natural thermal pools. If you want to spend the least amount of money on travelling in and around Christchurch, then winter is a winner.

Departing From Perth

Perth Airport (PER) is serviced by more than 30 international and domestic airlines. Cheap airfares from Perth to Christchurch are available with airlines including Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Qantas and Emirates. There are currently limited direct Perth to Christchurch flights, and Melbourne and Sydney are the most frequently-used stopover cities. Flight times for PER to CHC are from 8 hours or more.

Getting to Perth Airport

Perth Airport (PER) is quick and easy to get to. Budget-conscious travellers can use the Transperth bus service, which operates regular services between Perth Airport, Perth City and other local centres. Transperth 40, 380 and 935 bus lines will get you from the CBD to the airport within 20 minutes and a single fare is $4.50 AUD. If you choose a taxi, it will take roughly 20 minutes from the city centre and a one-way fare is about $43 AUD. Rideshare options like Uber are also available and there are dedicated drop-off areas at all terminals.

Parking at Perth Airport

Perth Airport has Long Term and Short Term parking options for every budget for all terminals. Plus you can save money by booking online and in advance.

Where to Park at Perth Airport

Travellers departing Perth for Christchurch can leave their car at one of two airport car parks.

• Short Term: When leaving from the airport’s international terminal look out for the short term parking right in front of the terminal. Drive-up rates begin from $49 AUD per day, or $315 AUD for a 6 to 7-day stay. It is then $35 AUD per day for every additional day.
• Long Term: This area is further away from the terminals but is also serviced by a free shuttle bus that runs every 10 minutes. Rates for Long Term parking start at $27 AUD per day, and $143 AUD for 8 to 9 days. It is then $11 AUD per day for every additional 24 hours.

Arriving in Christchurch

Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is a hub for Air New Zealand. It also happens to be New Zealand’s first international airport.

How to Get from Christchurch International Airport to Your Christchurch Hotel or Accommodation

Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is 12 km from the CBD. The Red Metro Bus service is great for travellers on a budget and will get you into the city for $8 NZD ($7.50 AUD). Both the number 29 bus and the Purple Line go via the city centre and the trip will take about 30 minutes. Buses depart outside the international arrivals terminal and you can buy your tickets from the driver. Consider using the airport shuttle service if you’re travelling in a group. You will pay approximately$25 NZD ($23.50 AUD) for one person; discounts then apply as the number of passengers increases. The journey can take up to 40 minutes in peak times or when there are several drop-offs along the way. Find the shuttle bus rank outside the arrivals hall. Taxis can be found in the rank outside the international arrivals terminal. The journey into central Christchurch via taxi is roughly 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. A one-way trip costs $45 to $65 NZD ($42 to $61 AUD). There is an airport pick-up fee of $5.50 NZD ($5.10 AUD). A hire car is a great way to explore Christchurch and Canterbury. Use Webjet to find the best deal and secure your booking before leaving Perth. Car rental desks are in the main terminal building.

Things to do in Christchurch

Brush up on New Zealand's rich cultural and natural heritage with a visit to Canterbury Museum. The museum houses a collection of rare Maori artefacts, the museum preserves this fascinating history. Head to the high-tech International Antarctic Centre for a thrilling ride on an all-terrain, amphibious expedition vehicle, or experience a magical simulated Antarctic Cruise in the 4D Extreme Theatre. Mountain bike, hike or take the Christchurch Gondola to reach the top of one of the Port Hills. From here, take in breathtaking views across the city and the Canterbury Plains to the Southern Alps. You can also spot Banks Peninsula, Lake Ellesmere and Lyttelton Harbour. Worn out from all that exercise? Head to New Regent Street to relax and enjoy a refreshing craft beer or a glass of New Zealand sauvignon blanc at one of the many restaurants and cafes lining the vibrant street. This picturesque heritage setting is packed with speciality shops and is also a great spot to catch the Christchurch Tramway to explore the rest of the city.