This is a big one.
Roundtrip flights from Chicago to Auckland are pricing at a rock-bottom $579 for travel in late February and early March. Historically, this route runs $1,200+, and until now the best I had seen was $766 (Dec 2025) and $882 (Oct 2023).
At $579, this is a true new low for one of the most bucket-list long-haul destinations in the world.
Yes — it’s short notice. But if you’ve got flexibility, remote work options, or a freshly reloaded vacation balance… this is how you visit a world-class country at a deep discount.
What To Do With 7–9 Days in New Zealand
If I had a week (or nine days), here’s how I’d structure it:
Auckland + Waiheke Island (2–3 days)
Harbor views, volcanic cones, waterfront dining, and an easy ferry to Waiheke for vineyards and coastal hikes.
Rotorua (1–2 days)
Geothermal parks, bubbling mud pools, Māori cultural experiences, and natural hot springs.
Queenstown (3–4 days)
Fly south. This is the adventure capital of the world — alpine lakes, dramatic mountains, Milford Sound day trip, hiking, wine country, or just soaking in the scenery.
Optional Add-On: Hobbiton (near Matamata) if you’re a LOTR fan — surprisingly fun even if you’re not.
Late February and early March is late summer in New Zealand — long daylight hours, warm temps, and shoulder-season value.
It’s rare to see a destination this far away price like a domestic long weekend.
If New Zealand is on your list… this is the kind of fare that can make it real. 🌏✈️
The Flights
