$93 Cheap Flights to Nelson
One-way
Departing from
Queenstown
Going to
Nelson, New Zealand
Nelson (NSN)
New Zealand • February, 2026
60% AI deal score
$368 $93
Nelson (NSN)
New Zealand • March, 2026
31% AI deal score
$215
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Nelson. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/7/2025).
Popular airlines to Nelson
Cathay Pacific
Emirates Airlines
Etihad Airways
Fiji Airways
Jetstar
Eagle Airways
Zambian Airways
QantasLink
210,413 searches in the past 7 days on RatePunk
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Top Cheap Flight Deals to Nelson
Recent round-trip flight deals to Nelson
Tue, Jan 27 - Wed, Jan 28
Cheapest
Queenstown (ZQN) - Nelson (NSN)
Eagle Airways airlines • 1 stop • Christchurch (CHC)
Nelson (NSN) - Queenstown (ZQN)
Eagle Airways airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
$368
$195
-$173
47%
Tue, Jan 27 - Wed, Feb 4
Queenstown (ZQN) - Nelson (NSN)
Eagle Airways airlines • 1 stop • Christchurch (CHC)
Nelson (NSN) - Queenstown (ZQN)
Eagle Airways airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
$368
$199
-$169
46%
Wed, Feb 18 - Wed, Feb 25
Queenstown (ZQN) - Nelson (NSN)
Jetstar airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
Nelson (NSN) - Queenstown (ZQN)
Eagle Airways airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
$368
$200
-$168
46%
Wed, Feb 4 - Sun, Feb 15
Queenstown (ZQN) - Nelson (NSN)
Jetstar airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
Nelson (NSN) - Queenstown (ZQN)
Eagle Airways airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
$368
$206
-$162
44%
Wed, Feb 4 - Thu, Feb 26
Queenstown (ZQN) - Nelson (NSN)
Jetstar airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
Nelson (NSN) - Queenstown (ZQN)
Air New Zealand airlines • 1 stop • Christchurch (CHC)
$368
$205
-$163
44%
Wed, Feb 4 - Sat, Feb 28
Queenstown (ZQN) - Nelson (NSN)
Jetstar airlines • 1 stop • Wellington (WLG)
Nelson (NSN) - Queenstown (ZQN)
Air New Zealand airlines • 1 stop • Christchurch (CHC)
$368
$205
-$163
44%
The cheapest time to fly to Nelson
Ready to jet to Nelson on a budget? Check out these popular routes with surprisingly cheap fares (one-way prices):
Facts About Flights to Nelson
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Nelson flight facts and tips.
Nelson city airports
Nelson Airport (NSN) is the primary airport serving the Nelson region of New Zealand. It's a domestic airport, connecting Nelson with major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Expect regional airline service with turboprop and smaller jet aircraft. The airport is conveniently located a short drive from Nelson city center, making it easily accessible. You'll find essential facilities such as car rentals, cafes, and limited shopping options within the terminal.
Pro tip: search “Nelson (Any)” to see fares to all Nelson airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Nelson
Cheapest airport
Nelson (NSN)
Welcome to Nelson Airport (NSN)! As the gateway to the beautiful Nelson Tasman region, it's small but mighty, offering stunning views as you land. It mainly handles domestic flights, connecting you to major cities in New Zealand, making it a breeze to start your adventure!
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
While Nelson Airport (NSN) might not be a major hub, it still connects you to over 20 destinations! Popular routes include flights to and from Wellington, Christchurch, and Auckland, making it a sweet spot for hopping around New Zealand.
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
There are more than 10 airlines that operate flights in and out of Nelson Airport (NSN), with Air New Zealand being the most popular full-service airline and Sounds Air one of the regional carriers serving the area.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$150 - $600
Flights to Nelson typically range from $150 to $600, but watch out for peak holiday seasons! Prices tend to climb when everyone's trying to soak up that Nelson sunshine or escape for a winter getaway. Keep an eye on those travel dates and book smart!
Flight frequency
100+ flights
Flights to Nelson operate frequently, with several flights scheduled daily. Peak seasons and popular travel times may see an increase in flight frequency, so book in advance!
NSN Airport Deal Stats
Current most discounted routes
Avg. most discounted routes (last 3 months)
NSN airport insights
Best days to catch a deal
Tue, Mon
Based on the provided data, Thursday and Saturday appear to offer the best chances for finding cheaper flight deals from Nelson Airport. Saturday has the lowest count, suggesting it might present unique opportunities for deals, while Thursday also shows a relatively low count.
Avg. deal survival time
8.7 hours
Deals from and to Nelson airport survive for an average of 8.7 hours. This means that good deals may disappear quickly, so it's important to book them as soon as possible.
Rare deal frequency
10 deals
In the past month, we've identified 10 rare deals for flights to Nelson Airport. These exceptional opportunities, scoring 90+ on our AI Deal Score, typically arise from mistake fares, special promotions, or ultra-discounts.
Average price drop
-51%
On average, flights to Nelson airport experience a price drop of 50.9%. This means that you could potentially save a significant amount of money by waiting for prices to decrease before booking your flight.
Next 4 weeks: deal forecast
Nelson Airport Next Month Forecast
Based on current trends, flights to Nelson Airport are expected to remain stable next month. There are no significant price drops or increases anticipated at this time.
Top 5 biggest price drops (last 3 months)
Found on November 4
Gold Coast - NSN
$1,095 → $197
82%
Found on November 4
Singapore - NSN
$1,750 → $448
74%
Found on November 6
Cairns - NSN
$1,115 → $424
62%
Found on November 3
Rarotonga - NSN
$890 → $355
60%
Found on November 6
San José - NSN
$3,650 → $1,563
57%
Check these nearby airports too
Looking for more options? These airports near NSN sometimes drop rare deals too:
Woodbourne (BHE)
~8 rare deals/month
If you’re flexible with departure cities, it’s worth keeping an eye on nearby airports — especially BHE for long-haul deal surprises.
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Nelson
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Nelson:
Cheapest month
May
Cheapest month
May is typically the cheapest month to fly to Nelson, offering savvy travelers the chance to explore this beautiful city without breaking the bank. With fewer tourists and pleasant weather, you can enjoy Nelson's attractions at a more leisurely pace. Plus, you'll find great deals on accommodations and activities, making your trip even more budget-friendly.
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
Tuesday is often the golden day to book your flight to Nelson. Airlines tend to release deals early in the week, so keep an eye out for those Tuesday bargains. Booking on this day could save you a significant amount on your airfare, leaving you with more money to spend on delicious seafood and local wines.
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
Flying to Nelson on a Wednesday can save you some serious cash. Mid-week flights are generally less popular, which means airlines drop their prices to entice travelers like you. By choosing a Wednesday departure, you'll dodge the weekend crowds and keep your travel budget happy.
Advance booking sweet spot
2 months
Advance booking sweet spot
To snag the best deals on flights to Nelson, aim to book about 2 months in advance. This sweet spot allows you to take advantage of early bird discounts and avoid last-minute price surges. Planning ahead not only saves you money but also gives you plenty of time to organize the rest of your awesome trip.
Seasonal considerations
Simillar
Seasonal considerations
Nelson's flight prices remain relatively consistent throughout the year, with no huge spikes or drops during particular seasons. This means you can plan your trip without worrying too much about seasonal price fluctuations. However, booking in advance is always a smart move to secure the best rates.
TL;DR: Want to visit Nelson without emptying your wallet? Fly in May for the best deals and book your flight on a Tuesday. Aim to travel on a Wednesday for cheaper fares and book about 2 months ahead to secure sweet discounts. With flight prices remaining steady year-round, planning ahead will ensure an amazing trip to Nelson without breaking the bank.
Nelson Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Nelson airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Nelson’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Nelson Airport (NSN)
Welcome to Nelson Airport, your gateway to the beautiful Nelson Tasman region! Just a hop, skip, and a jump (about 6 km) southwest of Nelson city center, this airport is super convenient. While small, NSN offers all the essentials, including car rental services and a cozy cafe to grab a bite. Taxis and shuttles are readily available to whisk you into town, making the transition smooth and easy. Quick tip: Nelson Airport is known for its stunning views upon arrival, so grab a window seat!
Tip: Arrive early to savor a coffee and the views before your flight!
Other airports
Alright adventurers, while Nelson doesn't have a colossal international airport right in its backyard, fear not! You've got options like Nelson Airport (NSN) itself, or even flying into bigger hubs like Blenheim Airport (BHE) or Wellington International Airport (WLG), and then making your way to Nelson, each offering a unique journey. The catch? You'll need to consider a scenic drive or a comfy ferry ride to reach Nelson's charming embrace, but think of it as part of the adventure!
Airport transfers
Getting around Nelson from its own airport is a breeze! Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available for a quick hop into the city center. Alternatively, pre-booked shuttle services offer a convenient and cost-effective option, whisking you away to your accommodation with ease.
What to Do in Nelson
Nelson isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Nelson, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Get ready to feast your eyes on Nelson's gems! From the iconic Christ Church Cathedral to the historical Founders Heritage Park, there's a postcard-worthy view at every turn. Don't forget to snap a selfie with the "geographic centre of New Zealand" marker!
Arts & culture
Calling all culture vultures! Nelson's arts scene is buzzing with creativity. Explore the numerous galleries showcasing local talent, catch a show at the Theatre Royal, or immerse yourself in Māori art and history at the Nelson Provincial Museum.
Food & nightlife
Foodies, rejoice! Nelson's culinary scene is a delectable adventure waiting to happen. Indulge in fresh seafood, sample local wines, and experience the city's vibrant nightlife with its cozy pubs and live music venues. Cheers to good times and tasty treats!
Shopping & fashion
Shop 'til you drop in Nelson's charming boutiques and markets! Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs, browse stylish fashion finds, and support local artisans. From quirky treasures to elegant ensembles, Nelson's shopping scene has something for every taste and style.
Nearby getaways
Adventure awaits just beyond the city limits! Escape to the breathtaking Abel Tasman National Park for kayaking and hiking, explore the golden sands of Kaiteriteri Beach, or venture into the Nelson Lakes National Park for stunning alpine scenery. Nelson is the perfect base for unforgettable day trips and outdoor escapades.
No matter your interest – be it art, food, nightlife, or nature – Nelson has something for everyone. And the best part? Many events and attractions refresh throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience each visit.
Events in Nelson This Month
[open to all] expats in nelson monthly meet up drinks
Event happening in Nelson, New Zealand on Thursday, November 6, 2025. More details about the event will be announced soon.
7 days live
Don't miss New Zealand’s most legendary comedy show, LIVE on stage in your town! Featuring top comedians, this is a night of laughter you won't forget. Get your tickets now for a hilarious evening!
game on
Calling all board game enthusiasts! Join us for an afterschool board game session where you can play your favourite board/card games or discover a new one. This event is suitable for all ages and skill levels.
wellby talking café - mccashin's (stoke)
Wellby Talking Café welcomes everyone to McCashin's Brewery in Stoke, Nelson. Come and join us for a friendly chat and a chance to connect with others in the Nelson/Tasman community on November 4, 2025.
advanced sea survival / offshore personal safety nelson 8 – 9 november 2025
Our two-day Advanced Sea Survival course provides you with theoretical and practical knowledge to handle a wide range of emergency scenarios at sea. This comprehensive course ensures you are prepared to survive in challenging maritime situations.
Nelson Weather
Weather in Nelson
Thu, Nov 6
0%
21° 12°
0%
Fri, Nov 7
0%
21° 11°
0%
Sat, Nov 8
0%
21° 11°
0%
Sun, Nov 9
10%
20° 12°
10%
Mon, Nov 10
45%
18° 13°
45%
Tue, Nov 11
10%
20° 12°
10%
Wed, Nov 12
10%
17° 12°
10%
Here’s a quick look at the weather you can expect, plus this week’s forecast:
Seasons: Nelson experiences four distinct seasons. Summer (December-February) is warm, averaging 20-30°C (68-86°F), with sunny days. Autumn (March-May) features mild temperatures, 15-25°C (59-77°F), and colorful foliage. Winter (June-August) is cool, 5-15°C (41-59°F), with occasional rain. Spring (September-November) sees temperatures rising from 10-20°C (50-68°F) and blooming flowers.
Rain: Nelson experiences rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being in winter (June-August). While rainfall can be frequent, it's usually not severe enough to significantly disrupt travel plans, though occasional heavy showers are possible.
This week's forecast: This week in Nelson, temperatures will range from 17.2°C to 21.1°C (62.96°F to 69.98°F). The weather will vary from partly cloudy and sunny days to drizzle, with a chance of rain on some days, especially around November 10th and 13th.
(We update the weather forecast weekly so you know what to expect during your travel week. Always check a day or two before your flight for the most current conditions.)
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Nelson
(Have more questions?) Feel free to reach out or check our comprehensive Nelson travel guide. We’re here to help make your flight to Nelson (and the trip itself) as smooth as possible.
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Nelson
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Nelson flights:
Be Flexible with Your Dates: Flying mid-week or during the shoulder season (spring/fall) can often unlock cheaper fares. Think of it as Nelson subtly whispering, 'Come when others don't!' to save you some cash.
Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into a smaller, regional airport near Nelson can be lighter on your wallet. It might require a scenic drive, but hey, road trips are part of the adventure!
Set Up Price Alerts: Use RatePunk to track flight prices and get notified when they drop. It's like having a personal flight deal fairy godmother!
Fly Early or Late: Red-eye flights or super early morning departures tend to be less popular, which means airlines often discount these flights to fill seats. Embrace the sunrise (or the stars) for savings!
Mix and Match Airlines: Don't be afraid to fly to Nelson on one airline and return on another if it saves you money. Playing the field can pay off!
Book in Advance (But Not Too Early): The sweet spot is usually a few months before your trip. Booking too far in advance can sometimes mean higher prices, as airlines assume you're willing to pay more.
Clear Your Cookies (Seriously!): Airlines sometimes track your searches and may increase prices if they see you're repeatedly looking at the same flight. Clear your browser cookies or use incognito mode to see if prices magically drop.
Look for Package Deals: Sometimes bundling your flight with a hotel or rental car can unlock significant discounts. It's like a travel super-saver combo!
Consider Connecting Flights: Non-stop flights are convenient, but connecting flights are often cheaper. If you don't mind a layover, you can save a good chunk of change.
Use travel reward points: Redeem travel rewards points to drastically cut down flight costs, potentially flying to Nelson almost for free, making your adventure even sweeter!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to find the cheapest flights to Nelson and make the most of your travel budget. After all, the more you save on your flight, the more you can spend on a Broadway show, a nice meal, or an extra tour in Nelson! 🎉✈️
