Wellington

Wellington Overview

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Traveling from Wellington, New Zealand to major cities in China requires connecting flights, as there are no direct flights. Wellington International Airport (WLG) serves as the primary departure point, and you will need to transit through an international hub before arriving in China. Here is a guide to help you navigate your journey from Wellington to cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi’an.

International Flights: How to Travel from Wellington to China

Step 1: Depart from Wellington Airport (WLG)

Wellington Airport (WLG) is the main international gateway in New Zealand’s capital. While there are no direct flights to China, several airlines offer connecting flights with layovers in international hubs.

Step 2: Connecting Flights via Major Hubs

Since there are no direct flights, you will need to fly through a major international hub. Common layover airports include:

  • Auckland Airport (AKL) – New Zealand
  • 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

These hubs connect you to the main cities in China.

Step 3: Airlines and Routes

Several airlines operate connecting flights from Wellington to China, including:

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

Typical Connecting Routes:

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

Step 4: Arrival in China

Upon arrival in China, you will reach one of the major international airports in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Xi’an. These cities are well connected by domestic flights, high-speed trains, and public transportation for further travel within the country.

Popular Cities to Visit in China

Beijing

  • The capital city, famous for iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall, Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, and Temple of Heaven.

Shanghai

  • Known for its stunning skyline, Bund, Shanghai Tower, Yu Garden, and vibrant cultural scene.

Guangzhou

  • A major southern city known for Canton Tower, Cantonese cuisine, and a rich cultural heritage.

Xi’an

  • Famous for the ancient Terracotta Army and Xi’an City Wall.

Chengdu

  • Renowned for its spicy cuisine, giant pandas, and as the gateway to Tibetan culture.

Hong Kong

  • A vibrant metropolis known for its skyscrapers, Victoria Peak, and bustling streets.

Estimated Flight Times and Distances from Wellington to China

City Distance (Miles) Distance (Kilometers) Flight Time (Hours)
Beijing 6,200 miles 10,000 km 12-14 hours
Shanghai 6,000 miles 9,650 km 11-13 hours
Guangzhou 5,800 miles 9,300 km 11-13 hours
Chengdu 5,700 miles 9,170 km 11-13 hours
Xi’an 5,900 miles 9,500 km 12-14 hours

Transportation within China

Once in China, there are various transportation options for traveling between cities and within cities:

  • Domestic Flights: Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu are well-connected by domestic flights, making it the fastest option for long distances.
  • High-Speed Trains: China has an extensive high-speed rail network that connects cities like Beijing to Shanghai in just about 5 hours.
  • Public Transportation: Major cities have metro systems, buses, and taxis for easy travel within the city.

China Visa for New Zealand Citizens

To travel to China, New Zealand citizens will need a tourist visa (L visa). Here’s how to apply:

  1. Visa Application: Submit your application to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in New Zealand.
  2. Documents: You will need your passport, photographs, travel itinerary, flight tickets, and hotel bookings.
  3. Processing Time: The typical processing time is around 4-5 business days, but it’s best to apply at least a month before your intended departure.

Tour Packages from New Zealand to China

Various travel agencies offer tours to China from New Zealand. Some popular agencies include:

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

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 Chinese landmarks.