South Island gains direct kink to Adelaide with new Air New Zealand route

Air New Zealand has launched its first-ever Christchurch–Adelaide service, marking a new milestone in the airline’s trans-Tasman network.

The inaugural flight departed Christchurch today, October 28, linking New Zealand’s South Island directly with South Australia for the first time.

The seasonal service will operate twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays through to Friday, March 27, 2026, with around 15,000 seats available over the season. Operated by an Airbus A320/321neo aircraft, the new route provides South Islanders with more choice and convenience when flying to Australia, while creating opportunities for more Australians to explore South Island destinations.

Air New Zealand general manager short haul Lucy Hall says the new connection strengthens tourism and community links across the Tasman.

“This new service is about more than just connecting two cities – it’s about strengthening tourism and connections between South Australia and the South Island,” Lucy says.

“We’re excited to welcome more Australians to explore our beautiful South Island, from its world-class food and wine to its adventure and nature experiences. At the same time, this route gives Cantabrians even more convenient access to Australia – our most popular international destination – for holidays, events, and reconnecting with friends and family.”

Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the route adds further depth to the airport’s growing trans-Tasman network.

“This service is another fabulous addition to our trans-Tasman network,” Justin says. “It builds on a strong civic and regional connection and supports more Kiwis and Aussies to explore each other’s backyards all summer.”

Adelaide Airport managing director Brenton Cox says the launch responds to strong demand between the two cities.

“We’re proud to celebrate the launch of Adelaide’s first direct flight to Christchurch — a milestone that responds to strong demand between our sister cities,” Brenton says.

“Nearly 50,000 people travel between Adelaide and the South Island each year, primarily for holidays or to visit family. This new non-stop service offers a seamless gateway to world-class destinations on both sides of the Tasman, making travel more convenient and appealing for South Australians and New Zealanders alike.”

Tourism and hospitality minister Louise Upston says new connections like this support regional growth.

“Direct connections like this one make a real difference to our tourism industry and to our regional economies,” Louise says. “It’s fantastic to see Air New Zealand continuing to strengthen ties with Australia, supporting tourism growth on both sides of the Tasman.”

South Australian minister for tourism Hon Zoe Bettison MP says the new route will boost visitation from one of the state’s key international markets.

“It is terrific news for tourism in South Australia to be launching the first-ever direct flight from New Zealand’s South Island to Adelaide,” Zoe says.

“More direct flights from New Zealand – currently our state’s fourth-largest tourism market – mean more potential visitors coming to experience all that South Australia has to offer.”