SYD - ZQN

$305 Find Cheap Flights from Sydney to Queenstown – Compare and Save

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Cheap Flights from Sydney to Queenstown (SYD-ZQN)

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

Recent return flight deals from Sydney to Queenstown

Wed, 14 Oct - Tue, 27 Oct
Jetstar Logo
06:15 - 11:10SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
2h 55mdirect
Jetstar Logo
20:50 - 22:10ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
3h 20mdirect
$495Jetstar
Wed, 9 Dec - Wed, 16 Dec
Jetstar Logo
06:15 - 11:10SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
2h 55mdirect
Jetstar Logo
20:50 - 22:10ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
3h 20mdirect
$502Jetstar
Tue, 27 Oct - Wed, 4 Nov
Qantas Airways Logo
06:15 - 11:10SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
2h 55mdirect
Qantas Airways Logo
20:50 - 22:10ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
3h 20mdirect
$587Qantas Airways
Tue, 2 Mar - Thu, 11 Mar
Multiple Airlines Logo
06:15 - 11:10SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
2h 55mdirect
Multiple Airlines Logo
18:20 - 18:15ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
25h 55m1 stop Auckland Intl
$593Multiple Airlines
Wed, 14 Oct - Tue, 27 Oct
Multiple Airlines Logo
06:15 - 11:10SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
2h 55mdirect
Multiple Airlines Logo
10:35 - 21:50ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
13h 15m1 stop Auckland Intl
$601Multiple Airlines
Tue, 27 Oct - Wed, 4 Nov
Qantas Airways Logo
06:15 - 11:10SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
2h 55mdirect
Qantas Airways Logo
20:50 - 22:10ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
3h 20mdirect
$604Qantas Airways
Fri, 15 Jan - Fri, 22 Jan
Air New Zealand Logo
19:45 - 08:25SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
10h 40m1 stop Christchurch
Air New Zealand Logo
12:15 - 21:50ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
11h 35m1 stop Auckland Intl
$676Air New Zealand
Mon, 1 Mar - Thu, 4 Mar
Air New Zealand Logo
18:15 - 08:25SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
12h 10m1 stop Christchurch
Air New Zealand Logo
10:25 - 07:50ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
23h 25m1 stop Christchurch
$676Air New Zealand
Wed, 7 Oct - Wed, 14 Oct
Virgin Australia Logo
08:30 - 16:45SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
6h 15m1 stop Melbourne
Virgin Australia Logo
17:40 - 22:10ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
6h 30m1 stop Melbourne
$739Virgin Australia
Sun, 25 Oct - Wed, 28 Oct
Virgin Australia Logo
09:15 - 14:15SYD  Sydney Kingsford Smith-ZQN Queenstown Intl
3h 00mdirect
Virgin Australia Logo
15:05 - 16:25ZQN  Queenstown Intl-SYD Sydney Kingsford Smith
3h 20mdirect
$744Virgin Australia
Booking Insights

Price, demand, and travel trends for Sydney to Queenstown flights

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

How much is a return flight from Sydney to Queenstown?

Return flights from Sydney to Queenstown start at $495. Prices are below average for this route right now, with typical return fares ranging from $532 to $800. The lowest price found in the past 5 days was $495 on Jetstar.

What's the cheapest day of the week to fly from Sydney to Queenstown?

Wednesday is the cheapest day of the week to fly from Sydney to Queenstown and is 4% cheaper than the average day. Thursday is the most expensive day with flight prices 7% higher than average. Based on deals found by KAYAK users in the last 12 months.

What is the cheapest month to fly from Sydney to Queenstown?

  • May is the cheapest month to fly from Sydney to Queenstown at $554 return.
  • December ($783) and July ($709) are the most expensive months.
  • The price difference between flying in the cheapest and most expensive months is 41% on average.
This is based on KAYAK aggregated and averaged internal data over the past 12 months.

When are prices from Sydney to Queenstown the cheapest?

Flights from Sydney to Queenstown are cheapest 22 weeks before departure. Booking in this window typically costs about 34% less than the average last-minute fare (within 2 weeks of the flight), based on KAYAK data.

Key details for Sydney to Queenstown flights

Low season

March

Cheapest flight

$305
Most popular time to fly and prices are also 2% lower on average.
Flights from Sydney to Queenstown

When to book flights from Sydney to Queenstown

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

Your Sydney to Queenstown flight questions, answered

Find helpful route details based on KAYAK data, including flight times, airports, airlines, and booking questions.

  • Can I buy a New Zealand SIM card at Queenstown Airport?

    Yes, there are prepaid SIM cards available for mobile phones and wireless devices at Paper Plus in the main terminal. There is also Vodafone, who can get your service connected and online straight away, they generally have cheap prepaid services.

  • Is Sydney Airport wheelchair accessible?

    Yes, Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport is well equipped for travellers who are disabled or mobility impaired. There are designated parking and drop-off zones for passengers requiring assistance, as well as lifts, ramps and travelators throughout the airport. Disabled toilets and ATMs are provided throughout the airport, and there is also a Hidden Disability Program for those needing to signal to staff that they may need additional time or support.

  • Are there any family facilities at Queenstown Airport?

    If you’re travelling with an infant on your flight from Sydney to Queenstown, you will be pleased to know that there is a parent room located next to the Airport Information Desk on the main floor of the terminal at Queenstown International Airport (ZQN), or Queenstown Airport. Here you can find a microwave, changing tables and a few toys.

  • How can I get to Queenstown city centre from Queenstown Airport?

    At about NZD2 (AUD1.85), the Orbus is the cheapest method of transport to downtown Queenstown – though you will need to purchase a GoCard at the airport to enjoy the ride. Alternatively, Queenstown Taxis and Corporate Cabs are two reliable companies, or renting a car is a good option if you prefer to be under your own steam.

  • Are the terminal buildings at Queenstown Airport open 24 hours?

    The terminal building at Queenstown Airport opens at 5am local time every day and closes at 10:30pm local time; the Airport Administration office is open Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5pm. Since you are not allowed to remain in the terminal overnight there are hotels located nearby if you need somewhere to stay.

  • Are there any meeting rooms at Queenstown Airport?

    Yes, there are meeting rooms at Queenstown Airport that can be accessed as soon as you have stepped off your flight. There is a conference room and two smaller meeting rooms in the main terminal building that can host business meetings, receptions or other special events. All rooms come equipped with tele-conferencing capabilities and a shared kitchenette, and catering services can be provided upon request.

  • Which airlines offer extra legroom and free seat selection on Sydney to Queenstown flights?

    Among airlines operating Sydney to Queenstown flights:

    • Virgin Australia: offers free seat selection
    • Air New Zealand: offers free seat selection
    • Qantas Airways: offers extra legroom; offers free seat selection

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

  • Which airlines are available on the route from Sydney to Queenstown?

    4 airlines operate flights between Sydney and Queenstown. The airlines offering direct flights on this route include:

    • Qantas Airways
    • Virgin Australia
    • Jetstar
    • Air New Zealand

  • Which airports can I use when flying from Sydney to Queenstown?

    Flights from Sydney to Queenstown usually depart from Sydney Kingsford Smith (SYD) and arrive at Queenstown Intl (ZQN).

  • Which airlines include bags at no extra cost on Sydney to Queenstown flights?

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

    • Jetstar: a cabin bag and a checked bag in Economy class
    • Virgin Australia: a cabin bag and a checked bag in Economy class
    • Air New Zealand: a cabin bag and a checked bag in Economy class

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

  • Which cabin classes can I book on flights from Sydney to Queenstown?

    Three cabin classes are available on flights from Sydney to Queenstown:

    • Economy class
    • Premium Economy Class
    • Business Class

  • How much can I save by having a stopover when flying from Sydney to Queenstown?

    On this route, stopover flights are cheaper than direct options on average. Stopover fares average $601 return via Christchurch (CHC), compared with $644 for direct.

  • What is the standard checked bag allowance on flights from Sydney to Queenstown?

    There is no standard. Checked bag policies vary by airline on this route. Most carriers charge $37–$139 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 Sydney to Queenstown?

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

  • Which airports do connecting flights from Sydney to Queenstown pass through?

    One-stop flights from Sydney to Queenstown most commonly connect through:

    • Brisbane (BNE) – 38% of one-stop connections
    • Melbourne (MEL) – 35% of one-stop connections
    • Auckland Intl (AKL) – 19% of one-stop connections
    • Christchurch (CHC) – 6% of one-stop connections

    Brisbane (BNE) handles the largest share of one-stop connections on this route.

  • Can I save money by using flexible dates for flights from Sydney to Queenstown?

    Yes. Being flexible with your travel dates can save you up to 10% on the Sydney to Queenstown route. Wednesday is the cheapest departure day at $625 return on average, while Thursday is the most expensive at $691, a difference of $67. KAYAK's flexible dates feature shows options up to 3 days before and after your selected dates, making it easier to compare nearby fares.

  • At what point is a flight considered delayed on the route from Sydney to Queenstown?

    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 Sydney to Queenstown route, 17% of flights were delayed in the past 3 months, with delays averaging 1 hour 37 minutes.

  • How are flight departures from Sydney to Queenstown spread across the day?

    Morning is the busiest departure period on Sydney to Queenstown flights, with 80% leaving in that window. Afternoon departures account for 20%, Evening flights for 0%, and Night flights for 0%.

  • What are the earliest and latest flights from Sydney to Queenstown?

    These are the earliest and latest flight times available from Sydney to Queenstown:

    • Earliest: departs at 06:15 and lands at 09:15
    • Latest: departs at 16:15 and lands at 19:15.

    The flight takes about 3h 00m.

  • How expensive are last-minute Sydney to Queenstown flights?

    Last-minute fares on this route (booked within 2 weeks of departure) run 27% above the route average of $645. Book 22 weeks before departure for the lowest fares.

  • How long is a flight from Sydney to Queenstown?

    A direct flight from Sydney to Queenstown takes 3h 00m, covering 3,119 km.

  • Do I need a passport to fly from Sydney to Queenstown?

    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.

  • Have flight prices from Sydney to Queenstown changed much recently?

    Yes. Based on fares seen in the past 5 days, return flight prices on this route showed a wide range, from about $495 to $2,273. That means the highest observed fare was about 5x higher than the lowest one.

  • How are flight prices from Sydney to Queenstown looking right now?

    One-way fares from Sydney to Queenstown are currently lower than usual. Average one-way flight prices are about $351, which is 8% below the typical average for this route.

  • How does Qantas Airways's on-time performance compare to other airlines on Sydney to Queenstown flights?

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

    • Qantas Airways: 85% on time
    • Jetstar: 83% on time
    • Virgin Australia: 80% on time

    On average, flights on this route are punctual 83% of the time.

  • How do delay rates compare for morning and evening flights from Sydney to Queenstown?

    Afternoon flights have the fewest delays on this route. Delays tend to pile up throughout the day as one late flight pushes the next, so earlier departures are usually more reliable.

  • How much time can I save by choosing a different stopover airport from Sydney to Queenstown?

    Flying via Melbourne (MEL) gives the shortest average 1-stop total travel time of 7h 59m, compared to 11h 00m via Auckland Intl (AKL) and 12h 04m via Brisbane (BNE).

  • What is the time difference between Sydney and Queenstown?

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

  • Which car hire options are available at Queenstown Intl Airport (ZQN)?

    Queenstown Intl Airport (ZQN) hosts 5 major car hire companies, with daily rates starting from around $9 for economy cars. Top options include:
    · EZU Car Rental
    · Mode
    · Snap Rentals
    · New Zealand Discount Car Rentals
    · Yes Rentals

  • How much should I expect to pay for a Sydney to Queenstown flight?

    Return flights from Sydney to Queenstown range from $532 to $800, with an average of $645 over the past 12 months. Anything below $532 counts as a good deal.

Your guide to booking Sydney to Queenstown 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 instead of Thursday. On this route, Wednesday flights average $625 – about $67 less than Thursday (10% savings) based on the last 12 months.
  • For the best chance at a low fare, aim to book around 22 weeks before you fly. On this route, that window historically saves about 34% versus last-minute pricing (KAYAK booking data, last 12 months).
  • If you can choose when to travel, plan your Sydney to Queenstown trip for May. Fares historically average $554 return in that month – typically $229 less than the most expensive month, which is December (based on the last 12 months).
  • If arriving on time is high on your priority list, Qantas Airways is the strongest pick on this route. 85% of Qantas Airways flights from Sydney to Queenstown arrived on time in the past 3 months, slightly above the route's average on-time arrival rate of 83%. When flights on this route do arrive late, the average delay is 1 hour37 minutes, so choosing an airline with strong on-time performance can make a difference on tight schedules.
  • If you have the time, taking a 1-stop flight through Christchurch Airport (CHC) can be cheaper than flying direct. The cheapest stopover option averages $601 return on this route – about $43 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 Queenstown Intl Airport.
    - Holiday Inn Queenstown Remarkables Park By IHG
    - DoubleTree by Hilton Queenstown
    - Ramada Suites by Wyndham Queenstown Remarkables Park
  • If you want to send a postcard home once you’ve landed at Queenstown Airport (ZQN), you will find them available in multiple convenience and gift shops across the airport, and there is a mailbox right by the Paper Plus shop.
  • If you need any assistance on arrival at Queenstown Airport, there is an Airport Information Desk with friendly, helpful staff in the main terminal, next to Global Culture. The opening hours are 08:30-17:00 every day.
  • Getting to Sydney Airport (SYD) from the city is usually fastest by train; the journey from Sydney City to the airport takes about 13min. Airport Link trains run roughly every 10min, and the station is located at the northern end of the main terminal.
  • When collecting your luggage at Queenstown Airport, just keep an eye on the monitors for your flight number, but you will generally either need to be at Carousel 2 or 3. Trolleys are available free of charge. Oversized items like bikes or snowboards will be ready for collection at the oversize area next to the carousels.
  • If you need a moment without your luggage at Queenstown Airport, there are storage lockers available in a number of sizes, ranging in price from NZ $ 7 to 20 (A $ 6.50-18.50) per 12h.
  • Sydney Airport offers several parking facilities for those who need to drop off or pick up passengers, as well as for travellers who are taking a flight from Sydney to Queenstown. P7 is the dedicated parking garage at the International Terminal 1, a multi-storey structure with easy access to the terminal. If you prefer, you can also use Pronto Valet as a parking option.
  • If you enjoy airport shopping, then you’re sure to appreciate the wide range of retail outlets on offer at Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. Amcal and Guardian are two pharmacies where you can pick up any last-minute travel essentials, or you can browse French Connection and Ermenegildo Zegna for premium fashion wear.
  • Interested in a bite to eat before you start your retail therapy? If so, Bistro 2020 and Coopers Alehouse are two of the many casual dining options available at Sydney Airport. For a quick bite, you may prefer Mad Mex or Oliver Brown, while Coast Café and Mach 2 are among the cafés to be found in the International Terminal.
  • Australian visitors and other international travellers on flights from Sydney to Queenstown can take advantage of one of the many Global Exchange Currency Exchange offices located at Sydney Airport to buy some New Zealand dollars before their flight departs. Alternatively, you could visit a teller at one of the ANZ Bank locations in either the Domestic or the International Terminal.
  • Queenstown Airport has two lounges: the Air New Zealand Lounge is reserved for clients of the airline, while at the Manaia Lounge you can pay a fee to enjoy hospitality including complimentary gourmet food and premium wine and beverages. The Manaia Lounge is located past security and upstairs in the International Departures Hall.

Prefer to fly direct from Sydney Kingsford Smith to Queenstown Intl?

 
Find which airlines fly direct from Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport to Queenstown Intl Airport, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Direct departures

Sydney Kingsford Smith to Queenstown Intl

Monday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Tuesday

Jetstar,Qantas Airways,Virgin Australia, +1 more

Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +2 more

Wednesday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Thursday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Friday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Saturday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Sunday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

See more direct flights

Direct returns

Queenstown Intl to Sydney Kingsford Smith

Monday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Tuesday

Jetstar,Qantas Airways,Virgin Australia, +1 more

Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +2 more

Wednesday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Thursday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Friday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Saturday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

Sunday

Air New Zealand,Jetstar,Qantas Airways, +1 more

Air New Zealand,Jetstar, +2 more

See more direct flights

More options for your flight from Sydney to Queenstown

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