Jetstar crew member Vicki Dyer’s top tips for Christchurch tourists

Far North Queenslanders can experience the magic of New Zealand’s South Island, with direct flights opening from Cairns to Christchurch this week.

Jetstar flight attendant Vicki Dyer, who flew on the airline's inaugural Cairns to Christchurch flight this week, has revealed her top travel tips for visitors flying from the Far North to New Zealand's South Island. Photo: Catherine Duffy.

Far North Queenslanders can experience the magic of New Zealand’s South Island, with direct flights opening from Cairns to Christchurch last week.

Tropical Tourism North Queensland chief executive Mark Olsen said the new route, which would operate three days a week, would strengthen the existing connection between Australian and New Zealand travellers.

“Why wouldn’t the world travel to Cairns and on to Christchurch for one of the best nature —based and culture holidays you can have anywhere in the world?” Mr Olsen said.

“More than half of all the outbound trips taken by New Zealand locals are into Australia — they love beaches, no doubt about it, which is why Port Douglas and Palm Cove are always favourites for the destination.”

To celebrate, Christchurch born, Cairns-based Jetstar cabin-crew member Vicki Dyer has revealed her top tips for North Queenslanders looking to visit her hometown.

“It’s the prettiest place on earth,” Ms Dyer said.

Try new things

Among the various sites and experiences around Christchurch, Ms Dyer recommended ‘Punting on the Avon’ a gondola ride around the city, embarking on the TranzAlpine railway, whale watching in Kaikoura or farm stays and wine tasting.

“Otherwise hop in the car and travel around the south island and drive yourself from Christchurch to Queenstown,” she said.

Vineyard in Blenheim, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand. Photo – iStock

It’s not too late! 

“You’d be surprised how often you can snag a good fare for a last-minute escape, so keep on eye on holiday sales and pack your bags,” she said.

Ms Dyer said the new route was perfect for travellers to experience the best of both worlds, the warmth of the tropical north, or a “wonderful” white winter.

“Flying from Cairns, you can go from the Reef to the alpines, hot to cold,” she said.

“In the peak of summer in Cairns, you can escape the heat and come to Christchurch, even though it’s summer here, it’s a lot cooler, and vice versa when it’s winter in Cairns, you can come to New Zealand and go skiing.”

New Regent Street in the centre of Christchurch, with outdoor cafes and speciality shops, and the tram route running through it. Photo: File.

Packing 101

Ms Dyer’s top tip was to ‘leave some wiggle room’ when packing your suitcase.

“Here’s a trick: leave a little extra space, you’ll thank yourself when you’re picking up souvenirs,” she said.

“If you’re on the verge of an overpacked catastrophe, purchase those extra kilos before you check in — it’ll save you stress (and dollars).”

For the tropical traveller, Ms Dyer said there were plenty of options to purchase “winter woollies” when arriving in Christchurch.

“For people in Cairns, the winter’s probably absolutely freezing, cold as anything,” she said.

“As long as they bring their warm jumpers, South Island is so beautiful any time of year, but I’d say to come in ‘the in-between’ in spring and autumn so you can get the best of both seasons.”

Lake Tekapo Mt Cook Lupines fields, South Island. Photo: File

Timing is everything

Timing an early airport arrival can be as important as picking which time of year to fly.

“Early birds fly better,” Ms Dyer said.

“Arrive at the airport with time to spare especially during peak holiday times, and you’ll swap panic for peace as your holiday begins with a relaxed vibe.”

Ms Dyer said there was ‘no wrong time’ to visit the South Island, with plenty of things to see in do all year round.

“From the coast, the sea to the mountains, it’s a little world in miniature, there’s even a desert here, and of course you’ve got Lord of the Rings sights on the South Island, and they’re only about an hours drive from Christchurch,” she said.

Tourists enjoying their Avon River Punting Tour in Christchurch Botanic Garden, South Island, New Zealand. Photo: File.

Enjoy the ride – yes, even with kids

“Flying with kids can feel like a marathon, but don’t forget to soak in the moments,” she said.

“Whether it’s your baby on your lap, toddler in the middle or a kid in a car seat – there are plenty of ways to make travel with kids an enjoyable experience.”

Ms Dyer said there was something for everyone to enjoy in Christchurch, whether people were looking for solo adventures or a good-old-fashioned family holiday.

“You can do an Antarctic experience and get to see some penguins, there are penguin colonies in and around certain parts of Christchurch, it’s rich and flora and fauna,” she said.

“Remember to snap plenty of photos and let the journey be part of the adventure.”

Originally published as Jetstar crew member Vicki Dyer’s top tips for Christchurch tourists