How To Get To Maldives From New Zealand [2025 Guide]
There are 6 ways to get from New Zealand to Maldives by plane or bus · Fly from Tauranga Airport · Fly from Wellington · Fly from Palmerston · Fly from Auckland.
Dreaming of leaving behind New Zealand’s stunning landscapes for the turquoise waters and luxury resorts of the Maldives? ✨ In 2025, getting from New Zealand to Maldives requires at least one or two stopovers, as there are no direct flights between the two destinations. This guide explains the best flight routes, travel times, distances, and costs so you can plan your dream holiday.
✈️ Flights from New Zealand to Maldives
There are no nonstop flights from Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch to Malé (MLE), the capital of Maldives. Instead, you’ll need to take connecting flights via Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Doha, or Dubai.
Popular Routes in 2025:
- Auckland → Singapore → Malé (Singapore Airlines, Maldivian Airlines)
- Auckland → Kuala Lumpur → Malé (Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, Maldivian)
- Auckland → Doha → Malé (Qatar Airways)
- Auckland → Dubai → Malé (Emirates)
- Auckland → Sydney/Melbourne → Singapore/KL → Malé (mixed carriers)
Flight Details:
- Total Duration: 18–26 hours (depending on connections)
- Cost (round trip 2025): NZD 1,600 – 2,400 (USD 950 – 1,450)
Distance Between New Zealand and Maldives
- Auckland to Malé distance: ~7,500 miles (~12,100 km)
- Direct flight time (if it existed): ~15 hours
- Actual travel time with stopovers: 18–26 hours
Best Transit Hubs for New Zealand–Maldives Travel
Travelers from New Zealand typically connect through these airports:
- Singapore (SIN): One of the most popular routes with excellent service and short layovers.
- Kuala Lumpur (KUL): Budget-friendly option with frequent flights to Maldives.
- Doha (DOH): Qatar Airways provides premium connections.
- Dubai (DXB): Emirates offers smooth connections to Maldives.
- Sydney/Melbourne (SYD/MEL): Regional hubs connecting New Zealand to Asia and beyond.
Can You Travel from New Zealand to Maldives by Cruise?
While possible, cruises from New Zealand to Maldives are not practical for most travelers, as they take several weeks and involve multiple stops in Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean. ✨ Flying remains the fastest and most convenient option.
Travel Tips for New Zealanders Visiting Maldives in 2025
- Visa-Free Entry: New Zealand passport holders get a 30-day visa on arrival in Maldives.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season) for perfect weather. May–October is cheaper but has more rain.
- Resort Transfers: After landing in Malé, you’ll need a domestic flight, seaplane, or speedboat transfer to reach your island resort.
- Book Early: Flights from New Zealand to Maldives can be expensive—book 3–6 months ahead for the best deals.
Summary Table – New Zealand to Maldives Travel Options
| Route | Duration | Cost (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auckland → Singapore → Malé | 18–22 hours | NZD 1,800–2,300 | Fast & convenient |
| Auckland → Kuala Lumpur → Malé | 20–23 hours | NZD 1,600–2,100 | Budget-friendly |
| Auckland → Doha → Malé | 22–25 hours | NZD 2,000–2,400 | Premium service |
| Auckland → Dubai → Malé | 22–26 hours | NZD 2,000–2,400 | Luxury travel |
| Auckland → Sydney/Melbourne → Malé | 20–24 hours | NZD 1,700–2,200 | Flexible routing |
❓ FAQs on Traveling from New Zealand to Maldives
Q1. Is there a direct flight from New Zealand to Maldives?
No, all flights require at least one stopover.
Q2. How long is the flight from New Zealand to Maldives?
Expect a total travel time of 18 to 26 hours, depending on the route.
Q3. How much does it cost to fly from New Zealand to Maldives in 2025?
Round trip fares range between NZD 1,600 – 2,400.
Q4. Do New Zealand citizens need a visa for Maldives?
No, Kiwis get a 30-day visa on arrival.
Q5. What’s the best route from New Zealand to Maldives?
The Singapore and Kuala Lumpur routes are usually the fastest and most affordable for New Zealand travelers.
