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Air New Zealand today marks 75 years since its first flight between Wellington and Sydney – a milestone shaped by the people who have relied on this route to do business, stay connected, and share New Zealand with the world.
The first service departed on Tuesday, October 3, 1950 aboard TEAL’s Solent flying boat Ararangi, carrying dignitaries and business leaders across the Tasman. What began as a twice-weekly flight has since grown into one of the airline’s longest-running international routes. In the past decade alone, more than one million people have travelled between the two cities.
Air New Zealand chief commercial officer Jeremy O’Brien says the anniversary reflects the enduring importance of the Tasman connection.
“For 75 years, this route has brought together families, friends, visitors, and communities on both sides. It has also helped businesses grow and supported the close relationship between our two countries. We’re grateful to all those who have flown with us over the years and remain committed to serving them today,” Jeremy says.
While the flying boats have long since given way to modern aircraft, the spirit of those early journeys remains. Today’s flights are about more than getting from A to B – they are about keeping people connected, supporting livelihoods, and carrying New Zealand’s story far beyond our shores.
Wellington–Sydney: 75 Years of Connection
- Tuesday, October 3, 1950: TEAL’s Solent flying boat Ararangi departs Evans Bay, Wellington, on the first trans-Tasman service to Sydney, commanded by captains C. Griffiths and T. Brewer
- The service initially operated twice weekly, continuing until Friday, June 25, 1954, when international flights paused for the construction of a land-based airport
- Flights resumed on Tuesday, July 26, 1960 with Electra aircraft, later replaced by DC8 jets until Tuesday, December 15, 1981
- After a short break, services restarted on Monday, September 30, 1985 with Boeing 767 aircraft
- Today, the Wellington–Sydney service operates daily
- In the past decade, the airline has flown more than 7,800 flights on this route, carrying over one million passengers
As the national carrier, Air New Zealand says a strong airline is good for New Zealand. With safety always at its core, the airline continues to invest in its people, fleet, and customer experience – ensuring that the connections forged 75 years ago remain strong for decades to come.
