Once considered a destination for the most seasoned of travellers, over the last few years this diverse and fascinating country has become one of the most talked about holiday options for New Zealanders looking for something exciting, totally different and surprisingly accessible.

For South Islanders in particular, China is easier to reach than many realise. Direct seasonal flights are available from Christchurch to Ganzhou with China Southern, and there are many direct flight options to Beijing and Shanghai when connecting via Auckland. Compared to long haul European journeys, getting to China is relatively straightforward, and importantly for many travellers right now, it avoids transiting through the Middle East.

Perhaps one of the biggest drivers behind the renewed interest in China is visa-free access for New Zealand passport holders, which has been in place since late 2024.…