Inshorts
You can explore India + Southeast Asia in one trip using NZ open-jaw flights.
Multi-city tickets from NZ often cost less than buying two separate return fares.
Multi city bookings let you visit multiple destinations in one itinerary, unlike a single trip (one or two destinations) or a round trip (returning to your starting point).
Multi-city flights also simplify the booking process by managing all flights under one reservation.
Perfect for travellers visiting home and wanting a quick vacation in Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, or Bali.
Works well for students, families, and working professionals wanting to stretch their annual leave.
Add-ons like lounge access on NZ–India routes depend on the airline and fare class.
Open-jaw itineraries help reduce jet lag and break long travel hours.
Why Multi-City Flights from NZ Make Sense
Travelling from New Zealand to India is a long journey, and adding Southeast Asia can make it more enjoyable. Many prefer breaking the trip to avoid fatigue. With multi-city flights from NZ, you can visit multiple destinations in one itinerary, often cheaper than separate one-way flights. Careful planning helps maximize value and experience on your multi city trip.
Why it works?
Cheaper than taking two separate trips, as multi-city flights are often more cost-effective
Lets you meet family in India + enjoy a holiday by visiting multiple destinations
Great for students heading home with a small getaway
Perfect for taking a break on long NZ to India flights
Book multi-city flights as early as possible, ideally three to six months in advance, to secure the best deals
Best Open-Jaw Routes NZ–India–Southeast Asia
Many travellers don’t know that flying into one city and returning from another can price better than a standard return ticket. This makes open-jaw routes ideal for those who want to explore both India and Southeast Asia in one well-planned journey. These routes are easy to manage, save time, and suit Indian families, students, and working professionals living in NZ.
Auckland → Singapore → India → Auckland
Christchurch → Kuala Lumpur → Delhi → Christchurch
Auckland → Bangkok (stay) → Mumbai → Auckland
Wellington → Bali → Chennai → Wellington
Auckland → Ho Chi Minh City → Hyderabad → Auckland
Queenstown → Singapore → Bengaluru → Queenstown
Planning your route in a logical sequence helps minimize travel time and maximize your experiences. These routes can be managed under one itinerary, making your travel simpler and more convenient. Travelers can also book multi-city flights with different airlines for more flexibility and better prices.
How to Book NZ → India + SE Asia on One Fare
Booking an open-jaw or multi-city ticket may sound complicated, but it’s actually simple once you understand the booking process. With multi city bookings, you can manage all flights in one booking, making it convenient to coordinate your entire trip. You just need to pick your Southeast Asia stop, choose your India city, and then return to your New Zealand home base. This simple method helps you secure the best NZ open-jaw flights without confusion.
Select the multi-city option (sometimes called “Complex Trip”) on airline or aggregator sites to build your route and find the best deals and lowest fares.
Choose your first stop in Southeast Asia (Singapore, KL, Bangkok, Bali).
Add your India destination as the next leg.
Return to your New Zealand city of choice.
Check layover timings for smooth transit.
Look for fares that include baggage on all sectors and be aware of additional fees, such as baggage or booking fees, especially when using multiple airlines.
Prices can vary depending on the airlines and routes chosen, so booking early can help you secure the best deals.
For seamless baggage handling and unified support, consider using a single airline or alliance (such as Air New Zealand or Air India).
Booking separate flights with different airlines may require collecting and re-checking luggage and lacks protection if you miss a connection.
Ask your travel advisor about best-priced NZ multi-city tickets: India + SE Asia.
Top NZ to India + Southeast Asia Open-Jaw Itinerary Ideas
Many travellers combine a quick Southeast Asian break with their India trip. A multi city trip lets you visit multiple destinations, but focusing on fewer countries ensures a better experience. These itineraries are convenient and affordable.
Auckland → Singapore (3 days) → Delhi (family visit) → Auckland
Christchurch → Kuala Lumpur (shopping break) → Kochi → Christchurch
Auckland → Bangkok (food + nightlife) → Hyderabad → Auckland
Wellington → Bali (relax) → Ahmedabad → Wellington
Auckland → Ho Chi Minh City (budget-friendly stop) → Kolkata → Auckland
Managing Jet Lag on NZ–India Flights
Jet lag hits many travellers flying from New Zealand to India due to long flight hours, time differences, and late-night departures. Breaking your trip in Southeast Asia gives your body time to adjust naturally. With a relaxed transition, your India visit starts on a fresh, energetic note.
Tips:
Take a 24–48 hour break in SE Asia
Stay hydrated
Walk during long layovers
Adjust your sleep cycle two days before travel
Choose seats with extra legroom
Use lounge access on NZ–India routes for rest and meals
Prepare your travel documents and be ready for arrival procedures at your destination to ensure a smooth entry after a long multi-city journey
Cheap Multi-Stop Flights from NZ: How to Save More
Many Indian travellers want to visit home without burning a hole in their pocket. With smart planning and the right open-jaw strategy, you can cover India and Southeast Asia at an affordable price. These tips help make your tickets more budget-friendly without compromising your experience.
Look for great deals and compare prices across different airlines and booking platforms to find the most affordable options.
Booking 30–60 days (6–8 weeks) in advance is often recommended for better prices.
Avoid peak dates (December, June, Diwali period).
Choose flexible travel dates.
Consider flying into one Indian city and out of another.
Use multi-city instead of two separate one-way fares.
Consider using budget airlines like AirAsia for affordable regional flights within Southeast Asia, as budget airlines typically offer cheaper, single-leg fares but may not support multi-city bookings.
Use public transport in Southeast Asia to save money and enhance your travel experience by connecting easily between destinations.
Travel light where possible.
New Zealand to India Travel Tips
Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or travelling with family, planning the long trip from NZ to India takes preparation. Keeping simple checks in place helps you avoid last-minute stress and ensures a smooth journey. These New Zealand to India travel tips are especially helpful for first-time multi-city travellers.
Carry valid onward or return documents
Check specific visa requirements for each country before booking flights, as these can change
Check transit visa rules for SE Asia
Check luggage allowances and understand baggage fees for each airline, especially on multi-city trips
Ensure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, theft, trip cancellations, adventure activities, and travel to off the beaten path destinations
Be aware of additional fees such as visa fees, baggage fees, and currency exchange charges
Manage currency exchange in multiple destinations using a mix of cash and credit/debit cards
Keep Indian SIMs or e-SIMs ready
Pre-book airport transfers and check airport facilities for services like SIM card purchases and transportation options
Prepare for departure procedures at each airport, including security and check-in requirements
Carry essential medicines from NZ
Exercise caution in crowded places, especially during festivals or in busy markets, and stay informed about weather conditions during the monsoon season in India
FAQs
What is an open-jaw ticket?
It’s flying into one city and returning from another—perfect for covering India + SE Asia in one trip. Unlike a round trip or single trip, an open-jaw or multi-city itinerary lets you visit multiple destinations with more flexibility and convenience.
Are NZ open-jaw flights cheaper?
Yes, many multi-city tickets from NZ price better than buying two separate returns.
How do I get an Indian visa from New Zealand?
Most New Zealanders use India’s eVisa, which can be obtained online 4 to 7 days before departure.
Are there direct flights from New Zealand to India?
Air India offers direct flights from Auckland to Delhi via Australia on some days.
Which airlines offer one-stop flights from New Zealand to India?
Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Cathay Pacific all offer one-stop flights from New Zealand to India.
Conclusion
Combining India + Southeast Asia in one journey is not just possible—it’s a smart travel hack for Indian travellers in New Zealand. With open-jaw routes, balanced itineraries, and simple planning, you can enjoy a refreshing holiday and still spend quality time with family in India. A well-planned multi-city ticket gives you more memories, more value, and a smoother travel experience every single time.
