International airlines have direct flights to New York and the majority of them land at John F Kennedy Airport, which is only 15 miles from Midtown in south eastern Queens.
After the tragedy of September 11th, security at all US airports has been increased and non-ticketed passengers aren't even allowed beyond the entrance doors. Arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes prior to domestic departures and 2 hours prior to International departures. The Port of Authority of New York and New Jersey operates all of the 3 airports in New York and has a website with detailed information about each airport. The ongoing price wars between the major airlines means a trip to the US is now more affordable than ever before. Some of the main carriers to New York include American Airlines, Air Canada, British Airways, Continental, Virgin Atlantic and United Airlines.
An average flight time from London is 8 hours but there are no direct flights from Australia or New Zealand, these airlines fly to the West Coast, around 14 hours flight time and stop to refuel before continuing on to New York.

Visitors to the USA require a valid passport and visas are required by all visitors except New Zealanders, Canadians and UK citizens visiting for not more than 90 days for business or pleasure and in the possession of a valid onward or return ticket. Once in the USA visitors can make an additional trip overland or by sea to Canada or Mexico and re-enter the USA without a visa within the 90 day time frame.

Airline Numbers:

American Airlines:
Tel: (800) 433-7300
www.aa.com

Air Canada:
Tel: (888) 247-2262
www.aircanada.ca

British Airways:
Tel: (800) 247-9297
www.british-airways.com

Continental Airlines:
Tel: (800) 231-0856
www.flycontinental.com

Delta Airlines:
Tel: (800) 241-4141
www.delta.com

United Airlines:
Tel: (800) 241-6522
www.ual.com

Virgin Atlantic:
Tel: (800) 862-8621
www.fly.virgin.com