Koru unveiled as Air New Zealand overhauls loyalty programme

Air New Zealand has announced a major evolution of its loyalty programme, with Airpoints transitioning to Koru from April 2026 — a shift the airline describes as the most significant refresh in nearly three decades.

Chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar says the move reflects what members value most.

“Koru symbolises care, connection and renewal. For our members, it inspires pride, belonging and a sense of place, especially when travelling far from home. Now it is at the heart of loyalty at the airline,” he says.

“We’ve listened to our five million members. Koru is simpler, more personal and unmistakably Kiwi — shaped directly by their feedback.”

Koru Black: new tier for the most frequent flyers

A key change is the introduction of Koru Black, a new top-earned tier recognising the airline’s most loyal travellers.

To qualify, members will need to earn 3,200 Status Points, including 1,920 from qualifying flights, in a membership year.

In the lead-up to the full programme launch, members who qualify for Koru Black between now and April 2026 will receive early rewards including:

An additional Recognition Upgrade and short-haul Recognition Upgrade (effective immediately)

Access to an Express Lane trial at Auckland Domestic Airport (19–28 November)

Extra valet parking vouchers issued on 8 December

Accelerated opportunities to unlock recognition

Further benefits to be announced in early 2026

From April 2026, Koru Black members will gain access to:

Koru Circle – the ability to share selected benefits with friends and whānau

Family Package: one Koru Black Nominee plus Koru Family Nominees for dependants

Friends Package: two Koru Black Nominees

Status Rewards, recognising milestone achievements

Access to the new Koru Premier Lounge at Auckland International Airport

Additional Recognition Upgrades and valet parking vouchers

Enhanced OneUp offers, increased by 60 per cent**

Nikhil says the new tier recognises members who have “trusted us with their journeys time and time again” and creates meaningful ways for them to share the experience with others.

A clearer, more rewarding programme for all members

The shift to Koru will bring refreshed tiers and a clearer pathway through the programme. Air New Zealand says this is the first phase of a wider transformation, with new partners, more ways to earn and spend, and expanded travel rewards to follow.

“There’s more on the horizon,” Nikhil says. “Our members have helped shape this programme with every journey and every piece of feedback. We’re incredibly grateful for that loyalty and can’t wait to welcome them into this new era.”

Koru at a glance: Programme changes from April 2026: