Air New Zealand to resume international flights from Christchurch to Tokyo, Singapore, and Perth

Air New Zealand will expand its international network from Christchurch, New Zealand with the resumption of non-stop routes to Singapore, Tokyo Narita, and Perth during the upcoming winter season.

As part of an agreement with Christchurch Airport to develop international routes into the South Island of New Zealand, the flag carrier of New Zealand will operate three weekly flights between Christchurch and Singapore from October 28. On November 28, three weekly flights will then be launched on the Christchurch-Narita route followed by three weekly flights on the Christchurch-Perth route from November 30.

According to Air New Zealand, the newly announced routes from Christchurch are enabled by the airline’s 787 aircraft returning to service after being grounded due to global engine maintenance issues, along with the delivery of new 787 aircraft to its fleet.

The airline previously operated flights from Christchurch to Singapore in 2020, to Narita in 2015, and Perth in 2019.

Air New Zealand currently operates flights from Auckland to Singapore (twice daily), Narita (daily), and Perth (daily).

Development of the International Network from Christchurch Airport

In addition, Air New Zealand signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Christchurch Airport to develop a long-term partnership which will include the alignment of long-term planning and network development to enhance international connections from the airport.

“The three new routes are a deliberate step to reconnect Christchurch directly to major global hubs in Asia, strengthen links into Australia, and change how the South Island connects to the world, including where visitors arrive and how they move through the country,” said Air New Zealand’s Chief Executive Nikhil Ravishankar. “It reflects the strength of our partnership with Christchurch Airport and the work that’s gone into building this together.”

Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson added: “This is a landmark moment. Seeing multiple new international widebody services launch from Christchurch builds on the growth already happening across our international network and creates major opportunities for freight exporters, the tourism sector and our wider economy. It reflects our strong partnership with Air New Zealand and our shared focus on growing international connectivity for the South Island.”

From Christchurch, Air New Zealand’s current international network from the city includes services to four points across the Tasman Sea in Australia: Brisbane, Mellbourne, Gold Coast, and Sydney.