Bali beach sunset

Travel Bali: Flights, Best Time to Visit & Things to Do

Summary

  • Discover some of Bali's top attractions, including Ubud's rice terraces, Uluwatu Temple, Seminyak Beach, and the stunning Nusa Islands.

  • Learn the best time to travel to Bali, with the dry season offering ideal conditions for beaches, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures.

  • Direct Air New Zealand flights from Auckland to Bali (Denpasar), with flight times of approximately 9–10 hours.

  • Practical tips on finding affordable flights and accommodation to Bali for your next tropical getaway using Mix & Match.

Bali is a destination that seems to have it all. From white-sand beaches, spectacular sunsets, lush rice terraces, vibrant culture, epic surf breaks, luxury villas, and unforgettable food experiences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach escape, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-packed holiday, Bali continues to be one of the most popular destinations for New Zealand travellers.

From surfing world-class beaches and exploring ancient temples to enjoying beachfront dining and island adventures, Bali offers the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement.

If you're wondering when to visit, what to see, and how to get there, here's everything you need to know before planning your Bali holiday.

Things to Do in Bali

If you're planning a Bali holiday, you'll find no shortage of incredible attractions, beaches, cultural experiences, and natural wonders to explore.

Love anchor markets Canggu

The Best Things to Do in Canggu

Canggu has become one of Bali's trendiest destinations, blending world-class surf breaks, stylish cafés, boutique shopping, beach clubs, and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

1. FINNS Beach Club

One of Bali's most iconic beach clubs, FINNS is the perfect place to spend the day by the pool before enjoying sunset cocktails overlooking the ocean.

2. La Brisa Beach Club

Located on Echo Beach, La Brisa is famous for its bohemian design, beachfront dining, and relaxed sunset atmosphere.

3. Love Anchor Canggu

Browse local fashion, handcrafted jewellery, artisan goods, and unique souvenirs at one of Bali's best-known lifestyle markets.

4. Café Culture

Canggu has become a destination for food lovers, with beautifully designed cafés serving specialty coffee, brunch, smoothie bowls, and fresh tropical dishes. Popular spots such as Copenhagen have become social media favourites, alongside countless local cafés throughout the area.

5. Surf Echo Beach & Batu Bolong

Whether you're learning to surf or are already experienced, Canggu's beaches are among Bali's most popular spots for catching waves and enjoying spectacular sunsets.

Ubud rice paddis

The Best Things to Do in Ubud

Known as Bali's cultural heart, Ubud is surrounded by lush rainforest, rice terraces, temples, traditional villages, and some of the island's best wellness retreats.

1. Tegallalang Rice Terraces

One of Bali's most photographed attractions, featuring stunning green rice fields and spectacular views.

2. Sacred Monkey Forest

A popular nature reserve home to hundreds of long-tailed macaques and ancient temple ruins.

3. Wellness Retreats & Spa Experiences

Ubud has become one of the world's leading wellness destinations, with travellers journeying from across the globe to experience its yoga studios and holistic wellness experiences surrounded by lush jungle landscapes.

4. Jewellery Making Classes

Create your own sterling silver jewellery with local artisans in one of Ubud's popular hands-on workshops and one of the area's most unique and memorable experiences.

5. Bali Swing

Soar above jungle valleys and rice terraces on one of Bali's famous swings. It's one of the island's most photographed attractions and a favourite for visitors looking for unforgettable views.

6. ATV Adventures & White Water Rafting

For something more adventurous, explore jungle trails, villages, rivers, and rice fields on an ATV tour or tackle the Ayung River on a white water rafting adventure.

7. Scenic Dining

Ubud is home to some of Bali's most picturesque restaurants overlooking the jungle. Sayan House is a favourite for its Japanese-Latin fusion menu and panoramic valley views, making it a popular choice for sunset dinners and special occasions.

Seminyak beach bali

The Best Things to Do in Seminyak

Seminyak is one of Bali's most popular beach destinations, known for its restaurants, shopping, beach clubs, and sunsets.

1. Seminyak Beach

Relax on golden sands, enjoy beachfront dining, or watch one of Bali's famous sunsets.

2. Potato Head Beach Club

One of Bali's most iconic beach clubs, offering ocean views, dining, and live entertainment.

3. Eat Street

A vibrant area filled with restaurants, cafes, bars, and boutique shopping.

4. Spa Experiences

Seminyak is home to some of Bali's best wellness centres and luxury spas.

Uluwatu cliffs

The Best Things to Do in Uluwatu

Located on Bali's southern peninsula, Uluwatu is famous for dramatic cliffs, surf beaches, and breathtaking ocean views.

1. Uluwatu Temple

One of Bali's most important sea temples, perched high above the Indian Ocean.

2. Kecak Fire Dance

A traditional Balinese cultural performance held at sunset near Uluwatu Temple.

3. Padang Padang Beach

A beautiful beach popular with surfers and swimmers alike.

4. Cliffside Sunsets

Uluwatu offers some of the most spectacular sunset viewpoints on the island.

5. Sundays Beach Club

Spend the day on a secluded stretch of white sand before relaxing with food and drinks at one of Bali's most picturesque beach clubs.

6. Malini Uluwatu

Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, Malini Uluwatu is a favourite for its spectacular ocean views and unforgettable sunset dining.

Nusa penida iconic drone shot

If You Have Time for a Day Trip

1. Nusa Penida

A short boat ride from Bali, famous for dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and incredible scenery.

2. Kelingking Beach

One of Indonesia's most iconic viewpoints.

3. Angel's Billabong

A stunning natural infinity pool formed by coastal rock formations.

4. Crystal Bay

A popular snorkelling and swimming destination with calm, clear water.

Bali beach sunset

Best Time to Travel Bali

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season from May to October, when sunny days and lower humidity create perfect conditions for beaches, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. For the best combination of great weather and value, consider travelling during the shoulder months of April, May, September, or November, when you'll often find lower prices on flights and accommodation while avoiding the peak-season crowds of July and August.

Bali enjoys warm tropical weather throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 26°C to 31°C.

January – March:
  • Hot and humid, with temperatures around 27–31°C. Tropical rain showers are common, usually in the afternoon or evening.

April
  • A transition month with warm temperatures, decreasing rainfall, and fewer visitors compared to peak season.

May – October
  • Dry season, with temperatures around 26–29°C. Expect sunny days, lower humidity, and excellent conditions for beaches, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.

November – December
  • Warmer and more humid, with occasional rain showers and lush green landscapes.

Getting to Bali from New Zealand: Air New Zealand Flights to Bali

Most travellers visiting Bali arrive at Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), also known as Denpasar Airport, which is located in southern Bali near popular holiday areas such as Seminyak, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and Jimbaran.

Air New Zealand operates direct flights from Auckland (AKL) to Bali (DPS), making it one of the easiest ways for New Zealand travellers to reach the island.

What Airlines fly to Bali from New Zealand?

The main airlines flying from New Zealand to Bali include:

  • Air New Zealand – direct flights from Auckland to Bali

  • Jetstar

  • Qantas

  • Virgin Australia

  • Singapore Airlines

Air New Zealand operates direct, non-stop flights between Auckland and Bali, helping travellers avoid lengthy stopovers and making Bali one of the most convenient tropical destinations to reach from New Zealand.

How Can I Find Affordable Flights and Accommodation to Bali?

Here are a few ways to save money on your Bali holiday.

Book Flights Early

Flights to Bali can become more expensive during school holidays and peak travel periods. Booking three to six months in advance can often help secure better fares.

Compare Flights with Mix & Match

Use Mix & Match NZ to compare airlines, travel dates, and fare options. This allows you to identify the most affordable times to fly and find the best value for your Bali holiday.

Travel During Shoulder Season

Months such as April, May, September, and November often provide excellent weather while avoiding peak-season pricing and crowds.

Search Mix & Match Accommodation

Whether you're looking for a luxury beachfront resort in Seminyak, a private villa in Ubud, or a family-friendly hotel in Nusa Dua, Mix & Match NZ makes it easy to compare accommodation options and create a Bali holiday that suits your budget and travel style.

Ready to Plan Your Bali Holiday?

From luxury resorts and beachfront villas and unforgettable cultural experiences, Bali remains one of the best-value overseas destinations for New Zealand travellers.

Mix & Match helps you to compare flights, accommodation, and holiday options in one place, making it easy to build your perfect Bali getaway. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, family holiday, or tropical adventure, Mix & Match NZ can help you create a Bali holiday tailored to you. Start planning your Bali holiday today.

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