New Zealand

New Zealand Overview

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Traveling from New Zealand to major cities in China involves taking connecting flights, as there are no direct flights between New Zealand and China. You will typically transit through international hubs in Australia, Southeast Asia, or Hong Kong. This guide will help you understand how to travel from New Zealand to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi’an, and Hong Kong.

International Flights: How to Travel from New Zealand to China

Step 1: Depart from New Zealand Airports

New Zealand has two main international airports serving as departure points:

  • Auckland Airport (AKL) – The busiest and most well-connected airport.
  • Wellington Airport (WLG) – Serves fewer international destinations but has connecting flights through major hubs.
  • Christchurch Airport (CHC) – Another option for travelers in the South Island.

Step 2: Connecting Flights via Major Hubs

Since there are no direct flights to China, you will typically transit through a major international hub before arriving in China. Common connecting airports include:

  • Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) – Australia
  • Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) – Hong Kong
  • Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) – Singapore
  • Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) – Malaysia

Step 3: Airlines and Routes

Several airlines operate connecting flights from New Zealand to China, including:

  • Air New Zealand
  • China Southern Airlines
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Qantas Airways

Example Connecting Routes:

  • Auckland → Sydney → Beijing
  • Auckland → Hong Kong → Shanghai
  • Auckland → Singapore → Guangzhou
  • Auckland → Kuala Lumpur → Chengdu
  • Wellington → Sydney → Xi’an

Step 4: Arrival in China

Upon arriving in China, you’ll land at one of the major international airports, including:

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)
  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG)
  • Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN)
  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
  • Xi’an Xianyang International Airport (XIY)

From there, you can continue your travel to other cities in China using domestic flights, trains, or public transportation.

Popular Cities to Visit in China

Beijing

  • China’s capital city, known for its historical landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.

Shanghai

  • The largest city in China, famous for its futuristic skyline, the Bund, Shanghai Tower, and vibrant cultural life.

Guangzhou

  • A bustling city in southern China, famous for its Canton Tower, Cantonese cuisine, and rich history.

Xi’an

  • Known for the world-famous Terracotta Army, Xi’an City Wall, and its historical significance as the starting point of the Silk Road.

Chengdu

  • The capital of Sichuan province, renowned for its spicy cuisine and giant pandas, as well as its role as a gateway to Tibet.

Hong Kong

  • A global financial hub and one of the most visited cities in the world, known for its skyline, shopping districts, and multicultural atmosphere.

Estimated Flight Times and Distances from New Zealand to China

City Distance (Miles) Distance (Kilometers) Flight Time (Hours)
Beijing 6,000 miles 9,650 km 11-13 hours
Shanghai 5,900 miles 9,500 km 11-12 hours
Guangzhou 5,800 miles 9,300 km 11-12 hours
Chengdu 5,600 miles 9,000 km 11-12 hours
Xi’an 5,800 miles 9,300 km 11-13 hours
Hong Kong 5,500 miles 8,850 km 10-12 hours

Transportation within China

Once in China, you can travel to other cities or explore the main city you’ve landed in. Some options include:

  • Domestic Flights: Flights between major cities in China are frequent and affordable.
  • High-Speed Trains: China’s high-speed rail network connects most major cities and is a popular choice for domestic travel.
  • Public Transportation: Metros, buses, and taxis are widely available in major cities, making it easy to get around.

China Visa for New Zealand Citizens

New Zealand citizens need a tourist visa (L visa) to visit China. Here’s how to apply:

  1. Visa Application: Submit your application to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in New Zealand.
  2. Documents: Required documents include your passport, photographs, travel itinerary, flight tickets, and hotel bookings.
  3. Processing Time: Visa processing typically takes 4-5 business days. It’s recommended to apply at least a month in advance.

Tour Packages from New Zealand to China

Several travel agencies offer package tours to China from New Zealand. Some examples include:

  • China Dragon Tours
  • China Highlights
  • Yunnan Exploration
  • Yaso Trip

Example Tour Packages:

  1. 8 Days Beijing-Xian-Shanghai Tour
  2. 9 Days Beijing-Xian-Guilin-Yangshuo Group Tour
  3. 11 Days China Classic Tour with Yangtze River Cruise
  4. 14 Days Beijing-Xian-Chengdu-Chongqing-Yangtze River Cruise-Shanghai Group Tour

These packages typically include flights, accommodation, transportation, and guided tours of major landmarks in China.

Traveling from New Zealand to China requires a connecting flight, usually transiting through hubs like Sydney, Hong Kong, or Singapore. Once in China, you can easily access major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou using domestic flights, high-speed trains, or public transport. Don’t forget to apply for your China visa in advance and consider booking a tour package for a more seamless travel experience.