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Christchurch Airport has welcomed the arrival of Air New Zealand’s inaugural flight from Adelaide on Monday, marking a new chapter in connectivity between the South Island and South Australia.
The flight was greeted with a kapa haka performance and a ceremony attended by Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson, Air New Zealand general manager short haul Lucy Hall, and Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger.
Christchurch and Adelaide have been sister cities for more than 50 years, commemorating the milestone in 2022 with civic events and a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen ties across tourism, trade, education, and culture.
This new direct air link builds on that long-standing relationship, providing South Islanders with a new gateway to South Australia’s renowned food, wine, and cultural scene, while making it easier for Australians to experience the South Island’s alpine landscapes, adventure tourism, and hospitality.
The celebration concluded with the unveiling of an “Adelaide” blade at the airport’s international destination signpost — a symbolic addition marking the connection between the two sister cities.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the new service strengthens regional and trans-Tasman links.
“This 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 year round.”
Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger says the route reinforces an enduring partnership.
“Adelaide and Christchurch are sister cities with shared values and strong ties,” Phil says.
“With 50 years of formal connection behind us, this new service opens the door to even more exchange, tourism, and opportunity.”
Air New Zealand general manager short haul Lucy Hall says the route goes beyond transport.
“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.
