Australia/New Zealand Trip: Which Flights Are the Most Budget-Friendly?

Hi there! I’m planning my trip for next year in February—5 weeks total: 3 weeks in southern Australia and 2 weeks on New Zealand’s North Island. (We’ve already explored all of New Zealand a few years ago, which is why we’re only spending 15 days on the North Island this time.)

My question is about flights. What’s the most cost-effective and economical route: France → Sydney → Auckland → France, or France → Auckland → Sydney → France? Any airline recommendations? Thanks so much!

Hi there,

It’s too early to give you an answer—flights for early 2026 aren’t on sale yet. You’ll need to check starting in March/April to get an idea. Chinese airlines are very competitive for these destinations, usually with one stop, so keep an eye out.

Hi Patrick, You're right, I'll keep that in mind. After that, I was thinking of doing some hitchhiking (in New Zealand), but I think 15 days is too much.

So, you already know—15 days for a stopover is long, especially since accommodation, restaurants, and supermarkets are expensive, even *very* expensive. Plus, you’ll need to add a separate flight to your intercontinental ticket no matter the direction.

Yeah, that’s true. So whether I start my trip in Australia or New Zealand doesn’t really matter in the end. It’ll depend on what the airlines offer me.

Absolutely! Just waiting for spring now. Have a great day.