Air New Zealand is ramping up its short-haul network, adding more seats on trans-Tasman routes to Australia, and boosted services to the Pacific Islands.
From October 2025 to March 2026, the airline will offer 1.7 million seats across the Tasman, solidifying its role as the leading trans-Tasman carrier.
This expansion includes 130,000 additional seats, achieved by increasing flight frequencies and using larger widebody aircraft on popular routes. The airline is also enhancing its premium seating options to cater to growing demand from both business and leisure travellers.
In addition to trans-Tasman growth, Air New Zealand will provide over 25,000 extra seats to Pacific Island destinations this summer.
This move supports stronger connectivity and tourism in the region. Overall, the airline will increase premium seating by 8% across its short-haul network, with up to 42 weekly flights on widebody jets to Australia.
Meeting Growing Regional Demand
Jeremy O’Brien, Air New Zealand’s Chief Commercial Officer, shared the airline’s excitement about the expansion. “With demand on the rise and more aircraft back in service, we’re stepping up our game across the Tasman and Pacific,” he said.
“This isn’t just about adding flights. It’s about offering our customers more choices, greater comfort, and the unique Kiwi experience they love. We’re expanding premium seating and strengthening connections across Australia and the Pacific.”
Air New Zealand has a rich history of connecting New Zealand and Australia, with its first trans-Tasman flight to Sydney in 1940.
Now, 85 years later, the airline remains committed to keeping these regions closely linked. O’Brien highlighted key milestones, including the launch of a new Christchurch–Adelaide route.
There was a 30,000-seat increase on the Auckland–Perth route, and the 30th anniversary of direct Queenstown–Sydney flights in July 2025.
“We’re proud to deliver the Kiwi hospitality our customers expect on both sides of the Tasman,” he added.
Trans-Tasman Route Highlights
The airline’s trans-Tasman expansion includes significant boosts to several key routes:
- Auckland–Perth: Nearly 30,000 extra seats, a 29% capacity increase, with flights rising from daily to nine per week.
- Auckland–Sydney: An additional 25,000 seats, including 7,500 premium seats, with up to 13 weekly widebody flights.
- Auckland–Melbourne: 16,000 more seats and up to 13 weekly widebody services.
- Auckland–Brisbane: 18,400 additional seats, with daily widebody flights and extra services during peak periods.
- Auckland–Gold Coast: An 8,500-seat increase, equating to a 12% capacity boost, with 11 weekly flights over summer.
- Queenstown–Sydney: A 26% capacity increase with 9,600 extra seats, moving from daily to nine weekly flights from December to February.
- Christchurch–Melbourne: A 14% increase, adding 9,500 seats with over 400 flights across the season.
Pacific Island Route Highlights
Air New Zealand is also enhancing connectivity to the Pacific Islands:
- Auckland–Rarotonga: 8,000 additional seats with 11 to 12 weekly flights during peak summer.
- Auckland–Nadi: 8,600 extra seats with up to 11 weekly flights.
- Auckland–Papeete: 1,600 more seats and a 37% increase in premium seating to meet strong demand.
Conclusion
This expansion reflects Air New Zealand’s dedication to providing better travel options and fostering stronger ties across the Tasman and Pacific.
With more seats, premium offerings, and frequent flights, the airline is ready to meet the needs of travellers while delivering its signature Kiwi experience.