China Southern Airlines is set to celebrate a decade of linking New Zealand’s South Island with China. The carrier now plans to expand its Christchurch-Guangzhou service for the 2025-2026 summer season.
Starting November 1, 2025, the airline will resume flights with a 26% increase in capacity and an extended schedule that includes the vibrant Chinese New Year period.
This milestone highlights ten years of growth since the airline’s first charter flight landed in Christchurch in 2015.
Expanded Summer Scheduling
The service kicks off with five weekly flights, scaling up to daily operations from December 18, 2025, to March 3, 2026.
This expanded schedule aligns perfectly with peak summer travel and Lunar New Year festivities, offering over 60,000 seats across business, premium economy, and economy classes.
South Islanders will enjoy seamless access to China and beyond, while the extended season ensures travellers can join family celebrations or explore Asia during this culturally significant time.
Since its debut, China Southern has carried over 500,000 passengers to the South Island, fostering strong ties between Christchurch and global markets.
The airline’s return is a boon for South Island exporters, particularly those shipping high-value goods like cherries, salmon, and other fresh produce.
The aircraft’s cargo holds provide a direct route to China, ensuring premium products reach Asian and European markets quickly.
Presence in Christchurch
Gordon Bevan, Christchurch Airport’s General Manager of Aeronautical Development, emphasizes the broader impact. “These flights do more than transport passengers. They carry South Island goods to the world, boosting local businesses and connecting our region to global opportunities.”
China Southern’s Guangzhou hub opens doors to a vast network, linking travellers to destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, Turkey, Nepal, and beyond.
This connectivity makes the service a vital gateway for Kiwis exploring Asia and Europe, while also welcoming international visitors to New Zealand’s South Island.
Christchurch is home to over 20,000 Chinese residents, many of whom rely on this route to reconnect with family and culture.
Ali Adams, Chief Executive of Christchurch NZ, highlights its significance. “China Southern’s service is a lifeline for our Chinese community, especially during Chinese New Year. It strengthens family ties, celebrates traditions, and deepens the cultural and economic bonds between Christchurch and China.”
Conclusion
China ranks as New Zealand’s third-largest tourism market, with nearly 170,000 visitors last year. These travellers, known for longer stays and regional exploration, significantly boost the South Island’s economy.
The return of daily flights ensures high-value tourists can continue discovering Christchurch and beyond, from stunning landscapes to vibrant local culture.
This expanded service underscores China Southern’s commitment to the region. By increasing capacity and aligning with key cultural moments, the airline is poised to strengthen Christchurch’s position as a global gateway.
Whether for business, family, or adventure, the Guangzhou-Christchurch route promises to deliver unmatched opportunities for connection and growth in 2025 and beyond.