Search Results forNew Zealand
Air New Zealand launches major New Year sale
Air New Zealand is ushering in 2026 with a significant New Year Sale, running from 7 to 19 January. The sale features some of the airline's lowest fares of the year, covering domestic, Australian, Pacific Island, North American, and Asian destinations. This initiative aims to encourage New Zealanders to set their travel plans in motion early in the year. Scott Wilkinson, Air New Zealand's Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the sale's purpose: "If you've been waiting for a sign to book flights to the destination you've been dreaming about, this is it! With every destination across our network on sale, we're helping Kiwi customers kick off the year with a plan and a boarding pass." The sale includes domestic fares starting at $69 one way, with routes such as Auckland to Gisborne and Christchurch to Dunedin. Trunk routes like Auckland to Wellington and Auckland to Christchurch are available from $79. For those eyeing a trip to Australia, fares begin at $215 for flights from Auckland or Christchurch to Brisbane. Pacific Island destinations are also part of the offer, with fares starting at $228 for flights to Nadi. North American routes, including Auckland to Los Angeles, are available from $599, whilst Asian destinations such as Shanghai can be booked from $529. The sale provides an opportunity for travellers to secure affordable trips, whether for reunions, adventures, or well-deserved breaks. Sale fares are available until 19 January, subject to availability and conditions. ```
Air New Zealand connects 16 million passengers in 2025
Air New Zealand has successfully transported nearly 16 million passengers across its domestic and international routes in 2025, underscoring its commitment to connecting people and places. The airline's Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer, Kiri Hannifin, emphasised the pride and responsibility felt by the airline's 11,500 staff in facilitating these connections. "Every flight we operate, every smile from a cabin crew member, and every ‘kia ora’ we share at arrival gates across the world represents the heart of this airline," Hannifin stated. The airline's operations included 166,406 flights, with domestic routes accounting for 138,323 of these and international routes for 28,083. The Auckland–Christchurch route emerged as the most popular, with 1,596,782 passengers, whilst Auckland–Sydney was the leading international route, serving 634,698 passengers. Air New Zealand also played a significant role in New Zealand's tourism sector, bringing in 951,163 international visitors, which constitutes about 30% of all international arrivals. This influx supports local communities and businesses across the country. The airline's loyalty programme, Airpoints, reached a milestone of over 5 million members, reflecting the strong connection New Zealanders have with their national carrier. Looking forward, Air New Zealand aims to continue supporting Kiwi travellers and tourists, maintaining its focus on safety and reliability whilst representing Aotearoa on the global stage. ```
Air New Zealand prepares for busy summer travel season
Air New Zealand is gearing up for a bustling summer season, with more than 2.7 million passengers, both domestic and international, set to travel. The airline anticipates a significant influx of travellers, with 1.6 million flying domestically and 1.1 million on international routes. The busiest domestic travel day is expected to be 19 December, with up to 32,000 passengers, whilst international routes will peak on 20 December and 3 January, each seeing up to 20,000 travellers. Kate Boyer, Air New Zealand's General Manager Airports, emphasised the airline's commitment to providing a seamless travel experience, stating, “We’re proud to be part of the journeys that connect people over the holidays.” Boyer further advised passengers to plan ahead, check in online, and arrive early to ensure a smooth journey. Top destinations of the season The South Island is a major draw, with Queenstown, Nelson, and Dunedin among the top destinations. Queenstown alone will welcome 260,000 visitors. Internationally, Australian cities Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane are popular, with a combined 500,000 passengers expected. Pacific destinations like Tahiti and Fiji, along with Los Angeles, are also in high demand. Air New Zealand is also enhancing the travel experience with festive offerings in its lounges, including a special summer menu. The airline encourages passengers to download the Air NZ app for real-time updates and to check travel requirements, especially for international flights. As the holiday season approaches, Air New Zealand remains focused on connecting people across Aotearoa and beyond. ```
Air New Zealand introduces a new direct Queenstown-Brisbane route
Air New Zealand now makes it easier for Kiwi travellers to swap snow for sand and enjoy some Queensland sunshine with a new non-stop seasonal service between Queenstown and Brisbane. The new route which takes flight from 22nd June 2026 was announced earlier today, 17th November. Likewise, it expands Air New Zealand’s strong trans-Tasman network, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to connecting New Zealanders with more destinations across Australia, and welcoming more Australians to explore Aotearoa. The Queenstown-Brisbane route will operate thrice a week through to 23rd October 2026, perfectly timed for those seeking a mid-year escape or a spring break across the Tasman. To celebrate the route launch, Air New Zealand has sale fares currently available for flights across the Tasman. Customers can currently book flights from Queenstown to Brisbane for only $275 per seat, one way. A new link between neighbours Operated by Air New Zealand’s A320neo narrowbody jet, the service will offer over 17,000 seats, providing a convenient link between the Southern Alps and sunny Queensland. Lucy Hall, Air New Zealand’s general manager for short haul and domestic, explains that the new route will open more opportunities for travel in both directions. According to Hall: “We know Queenstown is a year-round favourite for Australians, and this connection will also help bring more visitors to our region during the ski and adventure season. It gives Queenslanders another direct option to fly into the South Island, giving them the ability to explore Queenstown, the wider Otago region, and more of the beautiful South Island.” She added that Brisbane is also a fantastic destination for South Islanders looking to swap the snow for sunshine. Hall said: “This new service connects two iconic lifestyle destinations, giving travellers greater flexibility and choice when planning their next getaway.” Likewise, Queenstown Airport CEO Shane O’Hare remarked: “Air New Zealand is our biggest customer and we are delighted it is bringing back Queenstown-Brisbane flights. There are strong ties between our communities, and this service will be welcomed on both sides of the Tasman. The morning flight time will be great for those wanting to catch up with friends and family, and convenient for those with onward connections from Brisbane.”
Air New Zealand launches Next Generation Aircraft demonstrator programme
Air New Zealand and BETA Technologies formally launched the airline’s Next Generation Aircraft technical demonstrator programme today, 6th November. This unique programme marks a major milestone for electric aircraft innovation in New Zealand. The BETA ALIA CX300, the first electric aircraft to carry the Air New Zealand name, will fly a series of flights across the country over the next four months. In Hamilton, the aircraft will begin an intensive proving programme before travelling south to Wellington via Taupō, Napier, and Palmerston North. Once in Wellington, it will prepare for Cook Strait crossings to Blenheim by the end of January. The aircraft’s arrival and initial flights follow months of preparation between Air New Zealand, US-based BETA Technologies, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and airport partners to safely operate and monitor the aircraft in New Zealand conditions. A collaborative partnership The four-month demonstrator programme will see Air New Zealand pilots Andrew Mercer and James Owen work alongside BETA’s flight operations and engineering team to undertake flights in a range of conditions, flight manoeuvres and routes, building knowledge and training systems not only for New Zealand, but globally. Airline CEO Nikhil Ravishankar says the programme represents another step in the airline’s long-term innovation and fleet strategy. As he puts it: “60 percent of regional flights in New Zealand are less than 350 kilometres, and around 85 percent of our electricity is renewable, making it the perfect laboratory for next generation aircraft. While new propulsion technologies are still developing, BETA is leading the way and we’re witnessing a true technology step-change.” Ravishankar added that New Zealand is a country with a pioneering spirit and has always been a fantastic place to try new things. He said: “In bringing the ALIA CX300 to New Zealand, we’ve experienced true collaboration, a world-leading global innovator in BETA Technologies working with Kiwi engineers, pilots, regulators and airports, all focused on understanding how this emerging technology can be safely and practically integrated into the New Zealand airspace when it’s scalable and ready.” For his part, BETA Technologies’ head of global sales Simon Newitt opines that operating in New Zealand provides invaluable insights for the aircraft’s global deployment. Newitt said: “Launching this programme is an exciting moment for BETA, as it marks the early stages of operations with Air New Zealand. Our aircraft are designed to carry out all types of flight missions, and this programme represents the next step in validating and preparing our technology for rigorous, real-world environments.” He explained that this particular collaboration between airline, regulator, and infrastructure partners sets an example for how the aviation industry can continue to progress and innovate while safely bringing lower-emission, lower-cost, next-generation aircraft into service. A hub for learning and new technologies Meanwhile, Hamilton Airport CEO Mark Morgan says the airport is proud to host the first New Zealand phase of flying for the BETA ALIA CX300. Morgan enthused: “The Hamilton airspace is a great place to learn and understand the systems, infrastructure, and logistics that will one day support next-generation aircraft across the country, and we’re excited to be part of that learning for the future.” Kane Patena, director and CEO of New Zealand’s Civil Aviation Authority, pointed out that the technical demonstrator allows the CAA to better understand emerging aircraft systems and inform the regulatory frameworks needed to support their safe integration into New Zealand’s aviation network. According to Patena: “Emerging aviation technologies don’t always fit into existing rules, so it's our job to facilitate a clear pathway that helps operators safely bring these technologies into New Zealand’s unique aviation system.”
Michelin Guide makes its debut in New Zealand
Michelin announced the arrival of its famed Michelin Guide in Aotearoa New Zealand, marking its first-ever expansion into Oceania. The inaugural edition will cover four vibrant culinary destinations: Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown. Scheduled to launch by the middle of 2026, the restaurant selection is already under way, as MICHELIN Guide Inspectors are currently on the ground, dining anonymously to identify the very best restaurants that showcase the unique character of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown culinary scenes. According to Michelin Guide international director Gwendal Poullennec: “We are thrilled to bring the MICHELIN Guide to Aotearoa New Zealand for the very first time. The country offers a rich and diverse culinary landscape, shaped by its indigenous Māori heritage, Pacific influences, and a new generation of chefs who champion local produce with creativity and passion. By highlighting the exceptional restaurants of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown, we hope to share with the world the unique flavours and talent that make New Zealand such an exciting gastronomic destination.” Strong support from those who matter The expansion of the MICHELIN Guide to Aotearoa New Zealand is made possible through the valued support of Tourism New Zealand. As New Zealand minister for tourism and hospitality Louise Upston puts it: “This recognition is more than a win for our chefs and winemakers: it’s a triumph for our entire hospitality and tourism sector. It celebrates the incredible dedication and talent of the people who bring our food and beverage experiences to life every day.” Tourism New Zealand CEO René de Monchy lauded the entry of the Michelin Guide into the country, as it brings New Zealand’s vibrant food and beverage scene to the international stage. He said: The recognition not only celebrates our culinary excellence but also signals to the world that New Zealand is a must-visit destination. We warmly invite the world to come and experience it for themselves, to taste the flavours of this land and discover the stories behind every plate and pour.” Famed for food and drink Aotearoa New Zealand is a land shaped by a fusion of cultures, and contemporary cosmopolitan influences. Its cuisine reflects this melting pot of traditions, combined with an abundance of world-class local produce. From fresh seasonal vegetables to iconic grass-fed lamb and beef, New Zealand ingredients are elevated into modern cuisine which include international flair and paired with some of the world’s most acclaimed wines. In Auckland, while New Zealand cuisine remains at the heart of the dining experience, the city’s vibrant urban landscape, diverse international offerings and rich coastal resources cement its reputation as a culinary hotspot with global appeal. From inclusive fine dining that celebrates Aotearoa’s multicultural identity to wine lists showcasing the best of local vineyards, Auckland serves up a world class gastronomic experience that is welcoming and refined. Wellington, New Zealand’s creative capital, thrives on bold ideas and big flavours. The cosmopolitan city has a multicultural culinary scene, and a deep-rooted commitment to organic and sustainable produce encourages farm to table practices. As one of the world’s top coffee cities, Wellington celebrates coffee culture, with roasteries and coffee nooks around every corner. In the South Island, Christchurch restaurants capitalise on the region’s natural abundance, from Banks Peninsula seafood to fresh produce from Canterbury’s fertile plains. Local produce is celebrated through value-driven, farm-to-table dining; blending New Zealand staples with Pacific Rim flavours, they contribute to the nation’s evolving culinary identity. Queenstown is a world-renowned resort town nestled amongst the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps, offering a culinary landscape that marries natural bounty with eco-conscious innovation. The Central Otago terroir shapes the world’s southernmost wine region and its organic seasonal produce, paired with wild-caught venison and premium lamb sourced from the surrounding high country.
Air New Zealand raises the bar for aviation compliance with OneReg
Air New Zealand announced that the country’s leading aviation compliance system OneReg has gone live across its Engineering division. The implementation marks a major milestone for the platform, as partnership with the national carrier signals OneReg's strong expansion into the airline sector, building on the platform's proven success in airport compliance. Later this year, Air New Zealand's Maintenance division will also transition onto the platform, underscoring the airline's commitment to smart, scalable digital operations. According to OneReg chief executive Clinton Cardozo: "Air New Zealand is one of the world's most respected carriers, and this new relationship with them is a defining moment for OneReg. It validates our ability to support complex, large-scale aviation operations and signals our readiness to expand on our success with airport partners and lead in the commercial airline sector. This is only the beginning of what's to come.” Air New Zealand’s general manager for engineering Andrew Hewitt opined: "At Air New Zealand, we are committed to the highest standards of safety and compliance while continuously seeking innovative ways to enhance our operations. By digitising what was once a paper-heavy process, we can complete compliance requirements in a fraction of the time. It's a major step forward, giving thousands of our people the ability to manage compliance and operational documentation with far greater speed, safety, and efficiency. In a team responsible for keeping aircraft safe and reliable, that kind of agility isn't just helpful: it's essential.” Making a difference Designed to simplify aviation compliance, OneReg offers a fully integrated platform that streamlines the management of regulatory requirements. It enables operators to stay ahead of the curve in a fast-evolving regulatory landscape by consolidating complex processes into one smart system. Unlike traditional systems, OneReg offers a truly digital, fully integrated, dynamic compliance platform built to evolve with regulatory change, not just document it. OneReg creates a live compliance environment where teams can propose, review and implement updates in real time, with unprecedented levels of control, built-in traceability, and audit readiness. Air New Zealand's Engineering teams now use OneReg to manage policies, processes, and procedures that underpin airworthiness, such as the control and scheduling of maintenance operations, which are critical functions that ensure regulatory compliance and uphold aircraft safety. For the first time, the Air New Zealand Engineering team can now propose changes to documentation quickly and at any time, delivering tighter control with far less effort, enabling rapid updates without compromising safety or compliance. What exactly does OneReg do? The platform functions as a comprehensive compliance framework, supporting aviation organisations with smarter, more predictive management tools. Its capabilities go beyond digitising records, helping reduce manual processes, minimise errors and ensure continuous compliance in a tightly regulated environment. With the aviation compliance software sector projected to exceed US$18 billion by 2033, OneReg is well positioned to meet growing demand with a forward-looking, AI-powered solution proven in both regulatory and operational environments. OneReg is transforming how the aviation ecosystem collaborates by streamlining data flow between airlines, airports and regulators. As more stakeholders adopt the platform, OneReg is closing long-standing compliance data gaps and laying the groundwork for a more transparent, efficient and secure global aviation oversight system.
New Zealand Commerce Commission: NZ airports not delivering customers’ needs
A recent report from the New Zealand Commerce Commission points out that the country’s airports are struggling to meet the evolving needs of today’s passengers. The Commission’s Targeted Review of Airport Regulation highlighted several high-level observations around possible legislative amendments. However, the Commission assures airports throughout the country that it has, so far, rejected all calls to review regulation that requires them to act in the best interests of consumers. Furthermore, the Commerce Commission’s report has highlighted a timing gap that reduces its ability to influence outcomes before they are locked in, and that the options available to them through a Section 56 inquiry aren’t fit for purpose. Response from airport and airline executives Cath O’Brien, executive director of New Zealand’s Board of Airline Representatives, nevertheless lauded the Commission’s report, citing its benefits to both airlines and the passengers whom they serve. O’Brien said: "This makes sense. Early disclosures about very substantial capital plans allow the commission to make sure these very high cost plans deliver on what they promise Kiwis. This is very similar to what the commission already does for other large scale monopoly investments." Auckland Airport CEO Carrie Hurihanganui expressed gratitude for the Commission’s rejection of calls for a formal inquiry into airport regulation. Hurihanganui“Auckland Airport owns and operates one of New Zealand’s most strategically important infrastructure sites and we are investing to ensure it delivers for the future. These essential upgrades are creating jobs, boosting resilience, improving the customer experience and adding the capacity our national gateway needs for growth. This investment will benefit all airlines and users of the airport.” Air New Zealand weighs in At the same time, senior management at Air New Zealand also welcomed the report, urging all parties involved towards further action to ensure New Zealand’s critical airport infrastructure delivers better outcomes for Kiwi travellers as well as long-term economic growth for the country. Airline CEO Greg Foran weighed in by saying: “We welcome the Commerce Commission’s report and its recommendations to enable earlier oversight of large airport spending. The report also highlighted significant gaps in how the current oversight regime works and called for targeted changes. These changes may well achieve what we had hoped to accomplish through an inquiry. This is not a vote of confidence in the status quo, and the Commission’s recommendations should be acted on with urgency before further costs are locked in and passed on to everyday Kiwi travellers and businesses.” Foran explained that airports are critical infrastructure for New Zealand and this is the second time this year that an independent review has found that their investments are not delivering long-term benefits for Kiwi consumers. He elaborated by saying: “In 2023, Air New Zealand paid Auckland Airport $61 million. This year, that’s risen to $144 million. By 2032, we expect to be paying them $476 million with no effective oversight of how those costs are set before they’re locked in. Unfortunately, it’s New Zealanders who will bear the brunt of these increases. Add in another $248 million in government agency fees and levies and the bill climbs to $724 million in 2032. And Auckland is just one of 48 ports we operate from.”
New Zealand celebrates its conference champions
The New Zealand Business Events Bid Champions Awards 2025 celebrated the industry leaders and academics who won international conferences for New Zealand through the Conference Assistance Programme. Tourism New Zealand recognised the conference champions who successfully bid for high-profile events during the past year in a ceremony at Eden Park in Auckland (September 18). Overall, New Zealand secured 64 conference wins in the last financial year with an estimated economic impact of $78.8m. Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive René de Monchy acknowledged that these conferences not only enrich New Zealand’s visitor economy, but its universities, innovation hubs, key sectors, and communities. “These bid champions have secured conferences in areas from health to the environment, law to information technology. Their dedication in bidding for these events means New Zealand will play a leading role in shaping the future of these sectors.” With Tourism New Zealand’s Business Events team currently chasing 110 bids worth $185m, its highest ever value target, he urged more bid champions to come forward and help extend the conference pipeline. “Tourism New Zealand’s Conference Assistance Programme offers funding and support for those who want to bid for an international conference. “Hosting an international conference can help progress a bid champion’s personal and professional career, as well as showcasing the work of their peers, organisation, and New Zealand’s knowledge strengths on the world stage.”
Air New Zealand links Hamilton and Christchurch
Air New Zealand ground crew at Hamilton Airport welcome in the A320. Flight NZ324 from Christchurch touched down in Hamilton at 4.20pm, marking the city's first domestic jet service in 25 years. The new A320 jet services will contribute around 18,000 extra seats annually, with a further 7000 seats added through enhancements to the ATR 72 schedule, delivering around 25,000 additional seats in total. The jet service also brings a much-loved perk for Waikato travellers: Air New Zealand's iconic Koru Hour. Customers on the 5.05pm flight from Hamilton to Christchurch will be treated to New Zealand wines, premium beers and non-alcoholic options, with the classic cheese and crackers pairing. To celebrate the inaugural flight, customers today enjoyed an extended Koru Hour on both legs of the service, featuring cider from Waikato favourite Good George Brewing and Aotearoa Chocolate pretzels alongside the usual offerings. On arrival at Hamilton Airport, travellers received a warm Waikato welcome, with goodies from Hobbiton Movie Set, Hamilton Gardens, Zealong Tea Estate and Waitomo Caves. Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran says the addition of the jet service reflects the airline's commitment to growing where there is demand. "This is the second time we've introduced a jet on a regional route, following the success of Invercargill-Auckland in 2019. Growth means greater access for communities, more support for tourism and trade, and more opportunities for New Zealanders to thrive. That's something we're incredibly proud to deliver." Associate Transport and South Island Minister James Meager says the new service is a win for regional connectivity. "This jet connection between Hamilton and Christchurch is great news, making it easier for people to travel for events, business, and to visit loved ones. It will bring real benefits to communities at both ends of the route." Waikato Regional Airport Chief Executive Mark Morgan says the new service underlines the importance of the Waikato as a regional hub. "This is a milestone moment for the Waikato. Having a domestic jet service return to Hamilton after 25 years is a real boost for our community and economy, giving our people greater access to the South Island, while also making it easier for visitors and businesses to connect with the Waikato." Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson says the two regions are natural partners, with plenty to gain from stronger air links. "Canterbury and Waikato are two of New Zealand's powerhouse regions, each with thriving communities, strong economies and proud identities. Growing this connection is not just great news for travellers, but also for trade, tourism and business links between the South and the North."
Tourism New Zealand
Tourism New Zealand Nelson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, New Zealand New Zealand
Air New Zealand
New Zealand
STAAH New Zealand
Auckland New Zealand
Tourism New Zealand
New Zealand
Webinar: Small Ship Expeditions – Antarctica 23/24 + New Arctic 23
Dive right into Aurora Expeditions' brand new 2023/24 Antarctic season and updated 2023 Arctic & Global season by joining us at our series of Launch Events across Australia and New Zealand.
Webinar: Small Ship Expeditions – Antarctica 23/24 + New Arctic 23
Dive right into Aurora Expeditions' brand new 2023/24 Antarctic season and updated 2023 Arctic & Global season by joining us at our series of Launch Events across Australia and New Zealand.
Live Online Event: An Expedition Through the Lens of a National Geographic Photographer with Jason Edwards
Join your host, Craig Farrell, and special guest, Jason Edwards, National Geographic photographer, to see our expeditions through his lens, and find out what you can expect from these incredible journeys throughout the Kimberley, Antarctica, Melanesia and New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands.
Asian Hotel Industry Conference & Exhibition (AHICE) – 24-26 February, 2025 Singapore.
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AHICE SE Asia 2024 – 27 to 29 February 2024, Singapore
The Asian Hotel Industry Conference & Exhibition (AHICE), hosted by HM Magazine is set to make its South East Asia debut in February 2024 on Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28 and Thursday 29 in Singapore.
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