Originally Posted by
ATOBTTR
It is impossible entirely on SkyTeam - no SkyTeam carriers serve CHCH since China Southern left SkyTeam. But not impossible on DL partners as DL partners with VA (Virgin Australia). You will have to go via Australia (SYD, BNE, or MEL) to get to CHC on VA.
CZ is still in ST till end of year. I'll give my suggestion as I'm in CHC right now and live inbetween AUS and SAT. I normally find a deal on CI or MU to AKL. I then book a NZ flight from AKL to CHC or drive and take the ferry. CI/MU to AKL will be cheapest out of YVR/JFK/LAX. Finally book a ticket from AUS/SAT to YVR/JFK/LAX. For my current trip I flew SAT-YVR on DL, YVR-AKL on CI, and drove from AKL to CHC as i had work across the north and south islands. Going back only difference is I'm flying from CHC to AKL on NZ. May sound complex, but is easy and will save $$$!