So You Want to Ditch Deep Dish for Fish and Chips: How Long Does it REALLY Take to Fly to New Zealand from Chicago?
Let's face it, Chicago is awesome. Deep dish pizza, world-class museums, and that bean... thing (hey, it's a conversation starter, right?). But sometimes, a wanderlust itch needs scratching, and that scratch might just be shaped like a giant flight path over the Pacific Ocean. New Zealand, with its stunning scenery, epic Lord of the Rings filming locations, and sheep population that outnumbers humans by a truly impressive margin, beckons.
But before you swap that Chicago Bears jersey for an All Blacks rugby shirt (although, that combo could be a fashion statement for the truly adventurous), there's one crucial question: how long does it actually take to fly from Chicago to New Zealand? Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to take a whistle-stop tour of flight times that range from "not too bad" to "hold onto your airplane peanuts, this is gonna be a journey."
The Non-Stop Speed Demon: 16.5 Hours of Bliss (or is it?)
There's good news and, well, potentially less good news. If you snag a direct flight (think: one plane, one journey, minimal chance of getting lost over the Pacific and ending up in Antarctica), you're looking at a travel time of roughly 16.5 hours. That's about the same amount of time it takes to binge-watch all eight seasons of Game of Thrones. Consider this your pop culture endurance test – if you can survive the Red Wedding without shedding a tear, this flight will be a breeze (although turbulence might have a different effect on your emotional state).
The Layover Labyrinth: More Stops, More Chances for Adventure (or More Waiting)
Maybe the idea of 16.5 hours cooped up in a metal tube hurtling through the sky makes you break out in a cold sweat. Fear not, weary traveler! There are plenty of flights with layovers, which can break up the journey and give you a chance to stretch your legs, grab some authentic cuisine that isn't airplane food (fish and chips at LAX, anyone?), or maybe even score a sweet deal on a souvenir boomerang (because, why not?). The trade-off? Be prepared for a bit of extra travel time – we're talking anywhere from 20 to 30 hours depending on your chosen route.
The Great Time Debate: A Few Things to Consider
So, how long will YOUR flight take? It depends on a few factors:
- The airline you choose: Different airlines have different routes and schedules.
- The time of year you fly: Flights can be pricier and busier during peak travel seasons.
- The layover situation: Do you want a quick stopover to refuel, or a chance to explore a new city for a few hours?
The Final Word: Patience is a Virtue (Especially When Flying Long Haul)
No matter which flight option you choose, here's the key takeaway: pack your patience. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a newbie taking your first big adventure, a long-haul flight to New Zealand requires some mental preparation. But hey, think of it as an opportunity to catch up on reading, write the next great American novel, or become an expert on the in-flight entertainment options (pro tip: there's a reason they have so many movies – you'll need them!).
So, there you have it! The lowdown on how long it takes to fly from Chicago to New Zealand. Now, the only question left is: are you ready to trade those Windy City winds for the fresh air of Kiwi country?