How to fly to Europe from New Zealand

Looking for the best way to fly to Europe? From stopovers to direct flights; window seat versus aisle; choosing how to fly to Europe from New Zealand is no simple matter, and so it’s important to weigh all options before you depart. Whether you’re heading off on your OE, or simply booking a holiday, we’re unpacking how to fly to Europe, which airlines to consider (and the benefits they offer!), and how to make your budget work for you. 

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• Keep an eye on our Flight Centre Captain’s Choice. This will help you save money by nabbing the best deal available!
• Find the best route that works for you. Depending on which nations you fly through, you’ll find some variability on cost.
• Book as early as possible and be flexible with your dates where you can. Flights from Aotearoa New Zealand to Europe are long and expensive, however you can save potentially hundreds of dollars by booking ahead of time.
• Try traveling in the shoulder seasons - April to June, and September to October - for typically lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Keep things exciting by mixing up your accommodation - combining hotels, hostels and even overnight trains and buses. Your Travel Expert will be able to help you with this.
• Avoid the school holidays if you can. Prices outside of the peak season tend to be lower and can help your funds go a bit further.
• Add the Captain’s Pack to any booking to be covered in case of price changes, cancellation fees, and to protect in case of lost baggage.
• Use stopovers strategically as stopping in multiple destinations can help bring costs down. Your Flight Centre Travel Expert can help you make the booking work for your needs.
• Consider flying into a different airport than the main central hub. This could save you money in getting over there, and then you can use local public transit systems to get to where you need to be. 

Plus, fly now and pay later with a Flight Centre Mastercard which offers no international transaction fees and Flight Centre reward points on every purchase. 

Most carriers travel internationally from New Zealand to Europe, although through partnership alliances you may depart from New Zealand on one airline and land with another. 

Air New Zealand does not offer a direct line to Europe at this stage. However, as they are part of the Star Alliance, you can still book your flight with them and then your flight will be split with another alliance carrier. For example, if you were to book Auckland to London then you might go directly to Singapore on Air New Zealand, and then Singapore Airlines would take over and carry you through to London. Likewise returning, Singapore Airlines would bring you from London to Singapore, and then Air New Zealand would bring you home.  

Here’s a non-exhaustive breakdown of some of the other options you may have for flights to Europe. Keep in mind that these benefits are open to change at any time.

Singapore Airlines (via Singapore)

• World renowned for their exceptional service and their reliability.
• Generous legroom, even in economy (which is always so important on long haul flights!)
• Their food is consistently highly-rated and they have a great selection of inflight entertainment.

China Eastern (via Shanghai)

• One of the more cost-effective options for getting to Europe.
• Can service a broader range of European connections as it often transits through Shanghai.
• Ideal if you’re mostly focused on budget-friendly travel. 

China Southern Airlines (via Guangzhou)

• Known for their frequent sales and great value airfares. 
• Like China Eastern, their possible international connections via the Guangzhou hub are extensive.
• Offers a good mix of Western and Chinese meal options on board.

Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong)

• Oozes a premium feel - even in the economy class. Seats are comfortable and they offer excellent service.
• Transit through Hong Kong is smooth and efficient, with reliable connections.
• Reliable Wi-Fi network is available on most routes, and they have top-quality inflight entertainment choices.

Emirates Airways (via Dubai)

• One of the most popular choices for Kiwis heading to Europe. 
• More legroom than average when in economy.
• Great quality-meals with regional menu options, and an award winning inflight entertainment system. 

United Airlines (via the United States of America)

• A good choice for those who have frequent flyer miles to use up on Star Alliance flights.
• Family-friendly extras available onboard including kids’ meals and entertainment options.
• Convenient for bundling in a U.S.A stopover before heading to Europe.

Qantas (via Australia)

• Familiar feel with the Kiwi/Aussie service style.
• Comfortable economy seats with a decent capacity to recline.
• Easy short-haul option to ease into travel before taking the longer leg of the journey.

British Airways (via Sydney or Singapore, or via partners)

• Flights often pair up seamlessly with Qantas, making it an ideal onward carrier.
• Top-tier wine and beverage selection available on long-haul flights, if you’re the sort of person who enjoys a cheeky drink while soaring over the ocean.
• If you can afford it, their Premium Economy is well reviewed and is a good step-up option.

Qatar Airways (via Doha)

• Polished and friendly service, even in their economy class.
• Exceptional inflight entertainment and connectivity.
• If it’s within budget, then the Qatar Qsuite Business Class is one of the best in the world, and is unforgettable.

Lufthansa (via Asia, or Middle East)

• Classic German influences in the meals and service.
• Reliable and efficient with very strong on-time performance. Their European network is huge, meaning they can help you reach outlying airports a lot easier.
• Economy class can be a bit snug, but if you can afford to bump up to Premium Economy then you’ll find things much better. 

Choosing which route to take from New Zealand is a big decision, as it will impact the amount of time you actually spend in transit. For some, it’s a case of wanting to get there as soon as possible, whilst for others, they’re happy to layover in a few destinations and tick a few more countries off the bucket list. Regardless of your preference, there is plenty of choice available.

North America

The route to Europe via America is usually with a stopover in Houston, San Francisco, New York or Los Angeles. You can also opt for Vancouver as well if you’d rather transit through Canada. You will need an ESTA for transiting through the United States of America, and you will also need to pass through US immigration before you can connect to your next flight, so this can add a bit of stress if you have a tight connection.

The Middle East

You can easily get to Europe via Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Various airlines fly through here and offer different benefits. Emirates offers a complimentary hotel stay if you’re going to have to layover for 8 hours or longer, which can be a nice chance to relax, shower and refresh between flights. 

You will want to do your due diligence before flying this route, due to human rights issues. The Middle East holds traditionally conservative views of unmarried couples and LGBTTQIA+ travellers. Solo travellers may also wish to choose a different route.

Asia

Usually the cheapest route, a flight via Shanghai or Singapore can be a safer and more cost effective option than the other choices, however with the setback of longer layover times. This can be both a good and a bad, as it gives you a chance to explore a new city. China does offer a visa-free transit period for New Zealand passport holders, so enquire with your Flight Centre Travel Expert if you’re interested in this route. As with other routes, some airlines also offer a free one-night holiday stay if your layover is over a certain period of time. 

The Islands

The Islands are by no means a shorter route, but are definitely more scenic. Stopover in the Pacific Islands, such as in Fiji, for a couple of nights so you can soak up some sun on the beach, before journeying onwards for the rest of your holiday. 

You’ve got to keep things practical when it comes to packing for your long-haul flight. We’re not just talking about your suitcase, but also with your carry-on, and how you can maximise your in-flight experience. Being smart about your carry-on means less time messing around at immigration, and an easier time transiting from the aircraft to the airport.  

• Concealable body pack or waist bag to hold your passport, boarding pass, visas, cash, pen and wallet. You’ll want to keep these close at all times, and hidden from any would-be pickpockets.
• Most airlines will give you a sleep mask of some variety, but packing your own can’t hurt. 
• A neck pillow will help you avoid getting a sore neck from trying to sleep whilst sitting in the chairs. If you can get an inflatable one then this can save space in your bag also.
• Some form of jumper/sweater/coat - being over the sea at 1.00am can be chilly and although the ambient temperature in the plane is usually controlled, it pays to take your own measures.
• Wearing loose, comfortable clothing will make the flight much more enjoyable, Compression socks can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
• You’ll want your phone, a charger and an international adaptor in your bag.
• Airpods or noise-cancelling headphones are a must. Rawdogging a flight without any headphones or form of entertainment might’ve performed well on TikTok but it’s not worth the hassle. 
• A book, e-reader or a notebook for writing down thoughts and ideas. So long in transit without connection to the internet is a great time to ruminate over ideas, or to finally get that novel completed. 
• Anti-nausea or sleeping medication to help you get through the flight. 
• Some people like to pack their slippers as a means to easily slip into something comfortable and take a stroll around the cabin, however this is definitely a nice-to-have rather than a must!
• Deodorant, lip-balm, toothbrush and toothpaste - these don’t really need much explanation to be honest! You’ll definitely want to freshen up your breath after a flight, but sometimes being able to freshen up mid-flight is enough to perk you up for the rest of your journey.
• Pack your prescription medications into your carry-on as you’ll want to always have these close in case of any issues with your main bag. 
• Healthy snacks, chewing gum/mints and a drink bottle (although you’ll have to empty it before security). Be considerate and don’t get anything that is overly odorous, and keep in mind that any food such as fruit will need to be consumed before landing, or declared and destroyed at any international border. 
• If you want to be extra cautious then a day or two worth of clothes in your bag is useful also, in case of any mishap with your main suitcase. 

Pro tip: Loading your iPad or phone up with different audiobooks, podcasts, music, and shows from Netflix or one of the other streaming services, can help break the monotony. If you’re travelling with younger family members, then this can help you keep your sanity intact whilst also keeping them endlessly entertained.  

So, have you made up your mind? Explore the best prices for flights to Europe right here, then take a look at these top Europe tour options to level up your international getaway!