QANTAS BRINGS BACK DIRECT ADELAIDE TO AUCKLAND FLIGHTS FOR SUMMER

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Good news for South Australians dreaming of a summer escape across the Tasman.

Qantas has restarted its direct Adelaide to Auckland flights for a second summer season.

The first flight took off on Friday 30 October, and the route will run until 26 April 2027.

It is Qantas' only international route from South Australia, which makes it a big deal for anyone who is tired of connecting through Sydney or Melbourne.

What you need to know about the Auckland flights

The flights operate four times a week, on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.

An extra Wednesday service has been added from 14 December to 17 January, giving travellers five flights a week over the busy holiday period.

According to Travel Weekly, flight QF175 leaves Adelaide at 8.45am and arrives in Auckland at 3.30pm local time.

The flight takes about four hours and 15 minutes, so you can be sipping a flat white by the harbour by late afternoon.

For the return journey, QF176 is scheduled to leave Auckland at 4.30pm and land in Adelaide at 6.55pm.

As always, schedules can change, so check the latest times on the Qantas website before you book.

What's on board

The route uses a Boeing 737-800 with Business and Economy cabins.

New this season is bookable Economy Plus, which offers extra legroom, priority boarding and priority access to overhead lockers.

Every fare includes 30kg of checked baggage, meals and drinks, free wi-fi and inflight entertainment.

That generous baggage allowance is handy if you plan to bring back a few treats from New Zealand's food and wine scene.

It also takes the stress out of packing for a family holiday with children.

Eligible travellers can also relax in the Adelaide Business Lounge and the newly redesigned Auckland International Lounge.

How much will it cost?

Fares vary depending on when you travel and how early you book.

Travel site 2PAXfly estimates return Economy fares on the route at around $550 to $600, though prices change constantly and these are only indicative.

Qantas also faces competition on the route from Air New Zealand and Qatar Airways, which is good news for anyone hunting a bargain.

It pays to compare fares across airlines and dates, and to set up price alerts if your plans are flexible.

Travelling midweek or outside the school holidays can often mean better value.

Making the most of Auckland

Bringing international flying back to Adelaide last year ended a gap of more than a decade, as Karryon noted.

Auckland itself is a wonderful spot for a short break, with great food, a lively waterfront and plenty to explore.

Waiheke Island, with its vineyards and beaches, is just a short ferry ride from the city.

The dramatic black-sand surf beaches of the west coast are within an hour's drive.

If you want to see more of the country, Jetstar connections can take you on to Queenstown, Christchurch, Wellington and Dunedin.

That makes Auckland a handy gateway for a bigger Kiwi adventure, whether you are chasing mountain views, city culture or a relaxing winery tour.

For a long weekend, though, the city and its surrounds offer more than enough to fill your days.

Think harbour walks, local markets, cafe hopping and a sunset ferry ride back from the islands.

Our tips for booking

If you are planning a Christmas or New Year getaway, book early, as the extra Wednesday flights are likely to be popular.

Remember that New Zealand is ahead of Adelaide, so factor in the time difference when planning your first evening.

Pack layers, as Auckland weather can change quickly, even in summer.

Make sure your passport has plenty of validity left before you book.

And do not forget travel insurance, which is always worth having for overseas trips.

With direct flights, generous baggage and a short flying time, a Kiwi summer holiday has never been easier for South Australians.