Air New Zealand launches first-ever Christchurch–Adelaide route

Air New Zealand has launched its first direct service between Christchurch and Adelaide, marking a new milestone in the airline’s trans-Tasman network.

The inaugural flight departed Christchurch on 27 October and returned on 28 October, connecting New Zealand’s South Island directly with South Australia for the first time.

The seasonal service will operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, until 27 March 2026, offering around 15,000 seats over the season. Operated by a narrowbody Airbus A320/321neo aircraft, the route provides South Island travellers with more options to reach Australia while attracting more Australian visitors to New Zealand.

Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul, Lucy Hall, said the new connection would strengthen tourism and ties between the two regions. Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson welcomed the route as an addition to the airport’s trans-Tasman network, and Adelaide Airport Managing Director Brenton Cox said it responded to growing demand, with about 50,000 people travelling between Adelaide and the South Island each year.

New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the route would support regional tourism growth, while South Australian Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said it was the first of several new direct international connections into Adelaide planned for the year.

The Christchurch–Adelaide route will run until late March 2026, with twice-weekly flights and approximately 15,000 seats available during the season.

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