MEL - CHC

$332 Find Cheap Flights from Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) to Christchurch – Compare and Save

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Everything you should know

Cheapest return flight
$492
Typical prices: $541-$776
Jetstar
Fri 9/3Tue 20/3
MEL - CHC • Direct
Cheapest one-way flight
$332
Typical prices: $327-$467
Air New Zealand
Mon 19/11
MEL - CHC • Direct
Direct flights
You can fly direct with Qantas Airways, Air New Zealand, and Jetstar. Average duration is 3h 22m
Direct flights
+1
Direct flights
+1
Avoid delays
Most punctual • 81% on-time
Best time • Fewest delays
Insights
Insights
When to book
in advance
Our data shows that travellers who book at least 12 weeks in advance save around 35% compared to booking last minute.
Insights
Insights
When to travel
Cheapest • 18% price drop
Most popular
Good to know
+1
Good to know
+1
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We hope you enjoy your trip to Christchurch!
Flight Deals
Booking Insights
Flight Deals

Cheap Flights from Melbourne to Christchurch (MEL-CHC)

 
Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.

Recent return flight deals from Melbourne to Christchurch

Tue, 9 Mar - Sat, 20 Mar
Jetstar Logo
12:05 - 17:20MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 15mdirect
Jetstar Logo
09:15 - 11:05CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 50mdirect
$492Jetstar
Tue, 9 Mar - Sat, 20 Mar
Jetstar Logo
12:05 - 17:20MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 15mdirect
Jetstar Logo
09:15 - 11:05CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 50mdirect
$493Jetstar
Thu, 3 Dec - Thu, 10 Dec
Multiple Airlines Logo
15:00 - 07:25MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
14h 25m1 stop Auckland Intl
Multiple Airlines Logo
09:15 - 11:05CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 50mdirect
$526Multiple Airlines
Thu, 3 Dec - Thu, 10 Dec
Multiple Airlines Logo
08:15 - 07:25MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
21h 10m1 stop Auckland Intl
Multiple Airlines Logo
09:15 - 11:05CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 50mdirect
$530Multiple Airlines
Thu, 26 Nov - Sat, 5 Dec
Air New Zealand Logo
19:10 - 00:35MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 25mdirect
Air New Zealand Logo
06:00 - 08:00CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
4h 00mdirect
$571Air New Zealand
Thu, 12 Nov - Sun, 15 Nov
Air New Zealand Logo
19:10 - 00:35MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 25mdirect
Air New Zealand Logo
06:00 - 08:00CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
4h 00mdirect
$571Air New Zealand
Thu, 5 Nov - Sat, 14 Nov
Qantas Airways Logo
18:50 - 00:10MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 20mdirect
Qantas Airways Logo
06:05 - 08:00CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 55mdirect
$631Qantas Airways
Sun, 7 Mar - Thu, 18 Mar
Qantas Airways Logo
18:50 - 00:10MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 20mdirect
Qantas Airways Logo
06:05 - 08:00CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 55mdirect
$651Qantas Airways
Thu, 25 Feb - Thu, 11 Mar
Emirates Logo
18:50 - 00:10MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 20mdirect
Emirates Logo
06:05 - 08:00CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 55mdirect
$703Emirates
Wed, 24 Feb - Mon, 8 Mar
Emirates Logo
18:50 - 00:10MEL  Melbourne-CHC Christchurch
3h 20mdirect
Emirates Logo
06:05 - 08:00CHC  Christchurch-MEL Melbourne
3h 55mdirect
$706Emirates
Booking Insights

Price, demand, and travel trends for Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights

Use KAYAK data on prices, travel dates, airlines, and seasonal trends to compare options and book flights with more confidence.

How much is a return flight from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

Return flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch typically range from $541 to $776. The lowest price found in the past 5 days was $492 on Jetstar.

What's the cheapest day of the week to fly from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

Based on deals KAYAK users found in the last 12 months, Wednesday is the cheapest day of the week to fly from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch. It’s 6% cheaper than the average day, while Saturday is the most expensive, with prices 4% higher.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

•May is the cheapest month to fly from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch at $519 return.
•December ($867) and September ($690) are the most expensive months.
•The price difference between flying in the cheapest and most expensive months is 67% on average.
This is based on KAYAK aggregated and averaged internal data over the past 12 months.

When are flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch the cheapest?

Flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch are cheapest 12 weeks before departure. Booking in this window typically costs about 35% less than the average last-minute fare (within 2 weeks of the flight), based on KAYAK data.

Key details for Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights

Low season

July

Cheapest flight

$332
Beat the crowds with an average 33% drop in traveller numbers.
The most popular month to fly with an average 69% increase in traveller numbers.
One-way flight from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch

When to book flights from Melbourne to Christchurch

Are your dates flexible? Find out the best times to travel from Melbourne to Christchurch based on our flight data from the last year. Discover the cheapest month and even day to fly.
Estimated return price

Your Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flight questions, answered

Find helpful answers about this route, including flight times, airports, airlines, and booking tips.

  • What are the earliest and latest flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    These are the earliest and latest flight times available from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch:

    • Earliest: departs at 09:10 and lands at 12:32
    • Latest: departs at 19:10 and lands at 22:32.

    The flight takes about 3h 22m.

  • Which cabin classes can I book on flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    Two cabin classes are available on flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch:

    • Economy class
    • Business Class

  • How long is a flight from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    A direct flight from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch takes 3h 22m, covering 3,882 km.

  • Do I need a passport to fly from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    Yes, a valid passport is required for this international route. Many destinations require at least six months of validity beyond your travel dates. Check your passport expiry well before booking.

  • How much should I expect to pay for a Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flight?

    Return flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch range from $541 to $776, with an average of $634 over the past 12 months. Anything below $541 counts as a good deal.

  • How expensive are last-minute Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights?

    Last-minute fares on this route (booked within two weeks of departure) run 30% above the $634 route average. Book 12 weeks before departure for the lowest fares.

  • How much can I save by having a stopover when flying from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    On this route, direct and stopover fares are close on average, with direct at $633 return and stopover options via Auckland Intl (AKL) at $631.

  • How does on-time performance compare across airlines flying from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    Jetstar is slightly above the route average for timely arrivals, while Qantas Airways has a lower on-time arrival rate. On-time arrival rates on Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights are:

    • Jetstar: 81% on time
    • Qantas Airways: 74% on time
    • Air New Zealand: 74% on time

    On average, flights on this route are punctual 76% of the time.

  • What is the standard checked bag allowance on flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    There is no standard. Checked bag policies vary by airline on this route. Most carriers charge $34–$144 for the first checked bag in Economy. Premium fares and elite status bookings typically include a free checked bag.

  • Which aircraft model is used most often on flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    The Airbus A320-100/200 family is used most often on this route, operated mainly by Jetstar and Qantas Airways. Other aircraft seen on the route include Boeing 737-800 Passenger/BBJ2 (winglets) variants.

  • How are flight departures from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch spread across the day?

    Morning is the busiest departure period on Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights, with 40% leaving in that window. Evening departures account for 40%, Afternoon flights for 20%, and Night flights for 0%.

  • How are flight prices from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch looking right now?

    One-way fares from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch are currently lower than usual. Average one-way flight prices are about $363, which is 8% below the typical average for this route.

  • Which car hire options are available at Christchurch Airport (CHC)?

    Christchurch Airport (CHC) hosts 5 major car hire companies, with daily rates starting from around $7 for economy cars. Top options include:

    • New Zealand Discount Car Rentals
    • EZU Car Rental
    • Mode
    • Snap Rentals
    • Yes Rentals

  • Which airports can I use when flying from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    Flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch usually depart from Melbourne (MEL) and arrive at Christchurch (CHC).

  • What time of day has the fewest delays on flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    Morning flights have the fewest delays on this route, while evening departures tend to have the most.

  • At what point is a flight considered delayed on the route from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    A flight is considered delayed when it departs 15 minutes or more after its scheduled time. This is the standard used by the US Department of Transportation and most airline industry reporting. On the Melbourne Airport to Christchurch route, 24% of flights were delayed in the past three months, with delays averaging 1h 44m.

  • Which airports do connecting flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch pass through?

    Most connecting flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch pass through Auckland Intl (AKL), which handles 100% of one-stop traffic on this route.

  • Can I save money by using flexible dates for flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    Yes. Flexible dates can save you up to 9% on flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch. Wednesday is the cheapest departure day at $601 return on average, while Saturday is the most expensive at $660, a difference of $59.

    KAYAK's flexible dates feature shows options up to three days before and after your selected dates, making it easier to compare nearby fares.

  • Which airlines fly from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch?

    3 airlines operate flights between Melbourne Airport and Christchurch. The airlines offering direct flights on this route include:

    • Qantas Airways
    • Air New Zealand
    • Jetstar

  • What is the time difference between Melbourne Airport and Christchurch?

    Christchurch is 2 hours ahead of Melbourne Airport (New Zealand Time vs Eastern Australia Time). Plan for the time shift when scheduling connections or first-day activities.

  • What popular places can I visit in Christchurch?

    Some of the most popular sights in Christchurch are New Regent Street, Bridge of Remembrance, and Hagley Park. These are among the most viewed places in Christchurch on KAYAK.

  • Which airlines offer extra legroom and free seat selection on Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights?

    Among airlines operating Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights:

    • Virgin Australia: offers free seat selection

    Extra legroom and free seat selection availability depends on fare class and route.

  • Which airlines include bags at no extra cost on Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights?

    Here are some options for this route, based on selected ticket types and cabin classes:

    • Air New Zealand: a cabin bag and a checked bag in Economy class
    • Jetstar: a cabin bag and a checked bag in Economy class
    • Qantas Airways: a cabin bag and a checked bag in Economy class

    Baggage allowance can vary by ticket type, cabin class, route, and airline, so always check the fare details before booking.

  • Are there any family facilities at Christchurch Airport?

    Yes, there are facilities for families at Christchurch Airport. Baby changing and nursing facilities can be found in both the Domestic and International Halls of the airport, and there are also children’s play areas located in both halls. Additionally, there is a Kids’ Zone with games and activities in the International Arrivals Hall.

  • What cash exchange options are there at Christchurch Airport?

    International visitors on flights from Melbourne to Christchurch will be pleased to know that Travelex operates four stores in the International Arrivals Hall to take care of all your foreign exchange and wire transfer needs. Travelex plus the ANZ, ASB and BNZ banks also operate several ATMs dispersed throughout the airport terminal.

  • Is there a place to park at Christchurch Airport?

    Yes, there are places to park your car at Christchurch Airport. The Loop is an express pick-up and drop off zone, while Express Park is a premium park located next to The Loop. Short Stay (a three-minute walk) and Long Stay (a five-minute walk) are your other options, along with Orchard Road Car Park and Craddocks.

  • Are there any on-site hotels at Christchurch Airport?

    No, there are no hotels located on the premises of Christchurch Airport. However, there are several local hotels that provide a complimentary shuttle service to and from Christchurch Airport for their guests. Three such hotels are the Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport, Commodore Airport Hotel and Airport Gateway Motor Lodge.

Your guide to booking Melbourne Airport to Christchurch flights

Get tips on when to book, when to fly, and what to know before your trip.
  • If your dates are flexible, aim for a Wednesday departure and avoid flying on Saturday. On this route, Wednesday flights average $601, about $59 less than Saturday fares (9% savings) based on the last 12 months.
  • For the best chance at a low fare, aim to book around 12 weeks before you fly. On this route, that window historically saves about 35% versus last-minute pricing (KAYAK booking data, last 12 months).
  • If you can choose when to travel, plan your Melbourne Airport to Christchurch trip for May. Fares historically average $519 return in that month – typically $348 less than the most expensive month, which is December (based on the last 12 months).
  • For the best chance of arriving on time, fly with Jetstar. Over the past three months, 81% of Jetstar flights from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch arrived on time, slightly above the route average of 76%. When flights on this route arrive late, they're delayed by an average of 1h 44m, so choosing an airline with strong on-time performance can make a difference if you're on a tight schedule.
  • If you have the time, taking a 1-stop flight through Auckland Intl Airport (AKL) can be cheaper than flying direct. The cheapest stopover option averages $631 return on this route – about $1 less than direct flights (based on the last 12 months).
  • If you're arriving late at night and need somewhere to stay, check out these hotels close to Christchurch Airport.

    • Sudima Christchurch Airport
    • Novotel Christchurch Airport
    • Airport Gateway Christchurch
  • Christchurch International Airport (CHC), your destination if you are planning a flight from Melbourne to Christchurch, is serviced non-stop from Melbourne International Airport by several airlines including Emirates, Jetstar and Air New Zealand, the national airline that maintains a hub at Christchurch Airport.
  • First time visitors to Melbourne International Airport may be interested to know that Flight Centre, a travel agency, is located on the second floor of the International Departures lounge in Terminal 2, opposite check-in counters F and G. Here you can book accommodations and tours at your destination, as well as purchase traveller’s cheques and get other tourist-related information.
  • For travellers who enjoy airport shopping, Melbourne Airport offers the ultimate in retail therapy: T2 Luxury is a collection of premium retail stores in the International Departures lounge after the security checkpoint. Emporio Armani, Salvatore Ferragamo and Watches of Switzerland are among the tax-free options you can browse through there.
  • If you’re thinking of having something to eat before your flight from Melbourne to Christchurch, you can peruse the cooked-to-order menu at Air Bar & Lounge, enjoy delicious baked goods at Muffin Break or try the exotic fare at Nando’s, all of which are located before the security area. Once on the airside, you’ll find further options in the form of Urban Provodore and Bar Pulpo.
  • Need a place to charge your phone or other mobile device while at Melbourne Airport? If so, you will be happy to know that there are mobile phone charging stations for you to use in Terminals 2, 3 and 4. The Mezzanine Level in Terminal 2 has four (Gates 1-4); there are six in Terminal 3 (Gates 4-9); and there is one in the main food court in Terminal 4.

Prefer to fly direct from Melbourne to Christchurch?

 
Find which airlines fly direct from Melbourne Airport to Christchurch Airport, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Direct departures

Melbourne to Christchurch

Monday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Tuesday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Wednesday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Thursday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Friday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Saturday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Sunday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

See more direct flights

Direct returns

Christchurch to Melbourne

Monday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Tuesday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Wednesday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Thursday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Friday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Saturday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

Sunday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +1 more

See more direct flights

More options for your flight from Melbourne to Christchurch

Complete your trip to Christchurch with a hotel stay or car hire