Whether you’re chasing sunshine, sport or the thrill of a new adventure, Los Angeles is yours to experience with Air New Zealand’s non-stop flights from Auckland.
Few cities capture the imagination like Los Angeles, where sport, food, film and beach life combine under clear blue skies. With Air New Zealand’s non-stop flights from Auckland, plus seamless domestic connections, Los Angeles is perfectly in reach.
Air New Zealand operates up to 12 non-stop flights to Los Angeles each week, with a journey time of just over 12 hours. That means plenty of time to switch into holiday mode before you even touch down. Whether stretching out in Economy Stretch, cosying up on a Skycouch™, or settling into Business Premier™, passengers can expect Kiwi hospitality, fresh New Zealand flavours and on-demand entertainment.
In-flight service manager Estelle Pape says “there’s a certain magic” on the Auckland to Los Angeles route. “For Kiwis, it’s the anticipation of sunshine, palm trees and Hollywood sparkle. For our American guests, it’s a farewell to Aotearoa, and we have the privilege of sharing a last taste of home at 35,000 feet.”
Pape sees all kinds of guests, from families on their way to Disneyland, travellers off to conferences and “visitors simply chasing the LA sun”. Regardless of their destination, Air New Zealand’s alliance with United Airlines makes it easy to travel further, providing onward connections across America.
But there’s more than enough to experience in Los Angeles. Ideal for families, sports fans, culture-seekers and first-timers, LA offers a mix of adventure and excitement, with something new to uncover in over 30 culturally diverse neighbourhoods.
“Los Angeles is a mosaic of unforgettable offerings and an ever-evolving destination – where diversity thrives, and everyone is welcome,” says Adam Burke, president and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism. For newcomers, he recommends exploring LA one neighbourhood at a time.
Start around Hollywood, with the Walk of Fame, Hollywood sign and Griffith Observatory, then tick off the city’s landmarks with a Bikes and Hikes ‘LA in a Day’ tour, taking in celebrity homes, famous boulevards and beaches. For culture lovers, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, Getty Center, and LACMA show the city’s artistic side.
Families can plan entire days around Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood, where a new high-speed roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, debuts in 2026. But there are some lesser-known sites like Los Angeles Zoo, the fossil-filled La Brea Tar Pits, and the California Science Center in Exposition Park for a mix of learning and wonder.
For sports fans, few places match LA’s energy. The city is preparing for a run of global events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2027 Super Bowl, and 2028 Olympic Games. In the lead-up, new immersive venues like the Intuit Dome arena and The Bolt are redefining the fan experience. Catching a Dodgers or Lakers game might be a rite of passage, but LA is home to 11 professional teams that keep the sporting calendar packed year-round.
When it’s time to slow down, head to the coastline for the SoCal lifestyle LA is famous for. From Venice Beach’s colourful boardwalk to Hermosa’s relaxed dining scene and the family-friendly Redondo Beach Pier, “Los Angeles’ beach culture has undergone a significant transformation in recent years,” says Burke. Close to LAX, Marina del Rey is ideal for paddle-boarding, sailing, or sunset cocktails.
LA’s diversity shines brightest in its food scene. There’s an endless amount of eats to discover, from food trucks to Michelin-star restaurants and poolside bars. Start at Grand Central Market, a lively downtown hub that distils the city’s global flavours. Venture through Koreatown, Little Tokyo, or Thai Town, and you’ll find everything from sizzling barbecue to next-generation fusion.
For off-the-beaten-path experiences, head to the San Fernando Valley. Take a Warner Bros. Studio Tour, wander the NoHo Arts District, and find good coffee at Romancing the Bean in Burbank. There’s great food in the Valley too, with classic institutions like Casa Vega and new dining hall Topanga Social.
What makes Los Angeles truly memorable is its constant evolution, says Burke. The feeling that anything is possible. “Reinvention is part of Los Angeles’ DNA. It’s what keeps the city fresh, relevant, and endlessly inspiring.”
Whether you’re travelling for the family trip of a lifetime or after a city-beach escape, LA invites you to discover something new each time you visit. With Air New Zealand’s seamless service, world-class comfort and non-stop flights, the only question left is: what will you experience first?
Side bar: Beyond Los Angeles
Los Angeles is the ideal base for exploring Southern California’s coastal, desert and mountain gems.
Santa Barbara, Central Coast
Two hours north of LA, Santa Barbara is ideal for bikes along the waterfront, zoo visits, or relaxing at the beach. Don’t miss the tacos and ocean views on Stearns Wharf.
Joshua Tree National Park, Inland Empire
About a 2.5-hour drive inland, Joshua Tree is ideal for nature lovers. Explore the short walking trails, climb over giant rock formations, or stay after dark for stargazing.
Laguna Beach, Orange County
Made famous by a certain reality TV show, this coastal town is also known for its artist studios, family-friendly beaches, hillside mansions and turquoise swimming coves.
Pasadena, San Gabriel Valley
Home to the famous Rose Bowl stadium, Pasadena has leafy streets, heritage architecture and the Kidspace Children’s Museum. Picnic in the Huntington Gardens or browse the weekend markets.
Ojai, Ventura County
About 90 minutes from Los Angeles, Ojai is a small valley town surrounded by citrus orchards and mountain trails, known for its wellness retreats, farmers’ market and beautiful sunsets.
Book your next getaway to Los Angeles now, with non-stop flights from Auckland to LAX with Air New Zealand.