So You Want to Fly to New Zealand: Buckle Up, Buttercup (Because It's a Long One)
Ah, New Zealand! Land of hobbits, sheep with questionable fashion sense, and scenery so dramatic it should be in a Shakespearean play. But before you can be frolicking amongst the kiwis (the feathery kind, not the fruit), there's a little hurdle to overcome: the flight. Buckle up, because depending on how you slice it, this journey can be anywhere from a marathon to a sprint (with several snack breaks in between).
The Non-Stop Speed Demon: Reaching Middle-earth in Under 17 Hours
For the impatient adventurer (or those who are particularly fond of airplane peanuts), there's the good ol' non-stop flight. Clocking in at around 16.5 hours, this is your chance to channel your inner Usain Bolt and conquer the Pacific Ocean in one fell swoop. Just be warned: this much time hurtling through the sky can play havoc with your internal compass. Don't be surprised if you get off the plane blinking in the sunlight, convinced it's still yesterday.
Pro-Tip: Pack a good book (or three), some epic airplane playlists, and maybe even some fuzzy socks for maximum in-flight comfort. Because let's be real, those airplane seats were clearly designed by someone who has never experienced human knees.
The Layover Adventure: Splitting Up the Journey with a Side of Exploration
Maybe hurtling through the sky for 16 hours doesn't quite tickle your fancy. Perhaps you're the kind of traveler who likes to break up the journey with a little sightseeing. Well, my friend, then the layover route is your jam! Flights with layovers can take anywhere from 20 to 30 hours, but hey, that just means more time to explore another city! Think of it as a bonus vacation tacked onto your main vacation.
Where to Stopover? Los Angeles for some Hollywood glitz? Fiji for a taste of island life? The possibilities are endless (though your wallet might disagree after a while).
Just a heads up: Lapover adventures require patience and a good sense of humor. There's a chance you'll be spending a significant amount of time wandering around airports, desperately searching for the elusive gate that doesn't seem to exist. But hey, that's all part of the adventure, right?
The Bottom Line: How Long Does it REALLY Take?
So, how long does it take to fly to New Zealand from Chicago? Well, that depends on your travel style. Are you a speedy Gonzales or a more leisurely Lenny? Do you crave the efficiency of a non-stop or the potential for an impromptu stopover adventure?
The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. But no matter which route you choose, one thing's for sure: New Zealand awaits with its stunning scenery, friendly faces, and enough sheep to make you question your sanity in the best possible way. Just pack your patience, your sense of humor, and maybe some extra legroom (because seriously, those seats...), and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
