A coastal town with a beach, boats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Cheap Flights to Nelson

View NZ$101 flight on Thu, 17 Dec 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines to Nelson

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Cheap Tickets to Nelson

These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Sounds Air
Sounds Air
Sounds Air
Sounds Air
Air New Zealand

Frequently asked questions

What is the name of Nelson's airport?
Nelson has only one airport, Nelson Airport (NSN).
How far is Nelson Airport (NSN) from central Nelson?
If you're staying in central Nelson, you'll be there within moments after touching down at Nelson Airport (NSN). The terminal is only 6 kilometres from downtown.
What airport is best to fly into Nelson?
With one main airport in Nelson, it won't take you long to discover the best flight. You'll be jetting off to NSN, which is located around 6 kilometres from downtown.
How many airlines fly to Nelson?
You'll find 2 airlines that service the route to Nelson. These fly in from at least 4 airports across the globe.
Which airlines fly to Nelson?
Air New Zealand and Sounds Air frequently fly to Nelson. Catching an Air New Zealand flight from Wellington is one of the most preferred options to travel there.
How many nonstop flights are there to Nelson?
Flying to someplace new is much simpler when there aren't any annoying stopovers to slow you down. If you're off to Nelson, the awesome news is that there are 206 nonstop flights each week.
Where are the most popular flights to Nelson departing from?
The most popular flights to Nelson depart from Wellington, Auckland and Christchurch airports.
How long is the flight to Nelson Airport?
If you're flying to Nelson from Wellington, you'll have a flight duration of 45 minutes. Those departing from Auckland can expect to be travelling for 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Christchurch it's around 55 minutes away.
How to book the cheapest flight to Nelson?
If you want to have some extra spending money on your trip to Nelson, then listen up! As any experienced jet-setter will tell you, avoid booking at the last minute. Airfares are often highest close to the departure date. Another great way to pick up the best price is to research all options. If where you're headed has several airports, be sure to research the cost of flying into a smaller terminal. Finally, another simple way to save a few dollars is be ready to book fast. If you find an irresistible deal, don't hold off — grab it while you can.
Do you have any tips for my flight to Nelson?
If you're poorly prepared, air travel can be challenging. But there's no need to hit the panic button just yet. Follow these tips and tricks for a stress-free start to your time in Nelson. What to pack in your hand luggage:
  • Flying can be easy if you carry the right gear. Firstly, you'll want some basic toiletries, such as deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, a spare pair of socks and a good book. Next, find room in your bag for your phone and charger, medications and maybe a blow-up neck pillow as well. Last, but definitely not least, don't forget to bring your passport, travel docs and some money.
Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:
  • Make sure you don't have a Swiss Army knife hiding in one of the compartments of your carry-on luggage. Other banned items include explosive or flammable products, such as aerosol cans and bleach, and liquids and gels in containers with a capacity of more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres).
What to wear on a flight:
  • Comfort should be your top priority when deciding what to wear on board. Loose clothing is a wise option, as are flat, slip-on shoes.
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-distance flights. It results from blood clots forming due to inactivity and poor circulation, so do some gentle foot and leg exercises in your seat and consider wearing compression tights or socks.
How to get through airport security fast when flying to Nelson?
The answer is simple — be organised. We've put together some top tips for a hassle-free trip through security. Look out Nelson, here you come:
  • Airport security personnel first need to check that you have a valid ID and travel documents before anything else. Keep them within easy reach.
  • After that, both you and your carry-on luggage will be X-rayed. To make the process quick and painless, remove anything that might trigger the alarms. Personal belongings like your belt, coat and earphones need to go through the machine.
  • Your electronic gadgets like phones and laptops will also have to go on a tray to be scanned. No need to worry though, you'll be back online in no time.
  • Want to bring along your favourite cologne? Not a problem. As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) and it's stored in a zip-close bag, you can keep it with you in your carry-on.
  • The right choice of footwear can save you valuable minutes. Hiking or heavy-style boots are often required to be removed and X-rayed separately. Slip-on shoes usually aren't.
  • Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed on board.

Book with confidence

Nelson Flights

Creative, youthful, and chic, Nelson is a lovely little coastal city with a lot to offer its visitors. Something of a cultural hub, this destination is home to such attractions as the Refinery Artspace, the Höglund Art Glass Gallery, and the South Street Gallery. If you would prefer a touch of natural beauty, this location also boasts the Miyazu Japanese Garden, Tahunanui Beach, and the Natureland zoo. Although this city is a great place to visit, it is still relatively quiet in terms of tourism, and because of this, cheap flights to Nelson are easy to find all year long.

Best time to travel to Nelson

Peak Season:

From December through February, the climate in Nelson is beautifully warm and inviting. Flights to this area, though not overly expensive, can be pricier than normal. If you can find a good deal on flights and accommodation, this is a wonderful time to visit and explore Founders Park, do some mountain climbing at Kahurangi National Park, or browse the artistic wares at the Saturday Nelson Market.

Shoulder Season:

The months of March through May, and September through November make up the shoulder season in Nelson. These months can be a bit crisp, but are generally calm and pleasant. If you are feeling adventurous, this is a great time to brave the cool weather and skydive over Abel Tasman, or, if you prefer something more sedate, take a stroll through the streets to view such historic places as the Amber House and the Broadgreen House.

Off Season:

From July through August the weather can be very brisk, so many tourists avoid the city at this time. If you prefer the solitude that these months afford, this is an excellent time to take part in some of the indoor activities, such as touring the Christ Church Cathedral or visiting the Suter Art Gallery.

Nelson Airport and transfer information

Nelson Airport (NSN)Distance: 8km south of city centreTaxis and shuttles are convenient, quick, and inexpensive methods of ground transport. If you require more flexibility, you can rent a car at a slightly higher rate. Alternatively, you may prefer to arrange a ride with one of the local tour bus companies.

Online resources for your travel to Nelson

http://www.nelsonnz.com/Opens in a new windowThe Nelson Tasman tourism website provides information on attractions and events, accommodation and dining, plus special offers.http://www.nelsonairport.co.nz/airport_services.phpOpens in a new windowThe Nelson Airport website gives details on flights and ground transport.http://www.nelsoncitycouncil.co.nz/Opens in a new windowThe Nelson City Council website offers information on the city, local services, attractions, and environment.

Nelson Flights

Travel information

Destination airport
Picton
Destination airport IATA code
PCN
Destination city name
Picton
Roundtrip price
NZ$202

Trending flights to Nelson

These prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices quoted are per person, return, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Sounds Air

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