Air New Zealand adds 36,000 seats to its domestic winter flying schedule

Air New Zealand is boosting capacity on its Auckland – Christchurch, Auckland – Queenstown, and Auckland – Dunedin routes, providing thousands more seats to help keep Kiwi connected.

Between June 28 and October 25 select services across the three routes will be operated by the larger Airbus A321, adding more than 36,000 seats to the network at a time of strong seasonal demand.

This marks the airline’s second move to boost inter-island connectivity in under a week, following the launch of Air New Zealand’s new jet service between Hamilton and Christchurch last week. Together, these additions reflect Air New Zealand’s continued focus on creating more choice and greater connectivity for customers across Aotearoa.

Air New Zealand chief commercial officer Jeremy O’Brien says he’s thrilled to be able to connect more customers with these additional seats over the busy winter season.

“Whether they’re heading back to university, to a special event, or to the slopes this winter, these seats will mean more choice and opportunity to fly and more flexibility to plan travel around the moments that matter.

“This isn’t just about adding flights, it’s about supporting our regions. We’re committed to building connectivity – supporting communities, tourism and trade – so more New Zealanders can thrive. That’s a responsibility we carry with pride. Every seat we add is an investment in New Zealand’s future.

“We have a plan and some great momentum, so watch this space.”

Jeremy says the airline is focused on long-term, sustainable growth that benefits the whole country.

“Whether it’s getting visitors to Central Otago’s ski fields, students to Dunedin’s lecture theatres, or whānau home to Christchurch, we’re proud to play our part in connecting people and place.”