Air New Zealand announced on 20 May the launch of three new non-stop international routes from Christchurch Airport, as part of a formal agreement with the airport to grow direct international access to the South Island. The routes — to Singapore Changi, Tokyo Narita, and Perth — will all operate three times weekly using Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
The Christchurch to Singapore service is scheduled to launch on 28 October 2026, restoring a direct link last operated in 2020 before the Covid-19 pandemic. The Tokyo Narita and Perth routes follow on 28 November and 30 November respectively, with the Tokyo service re-establishing a connection that was suspended as far back as 2015.
The expansion is enabled by the return of Air New Zealand's 787 fleet following resolution of global engine maintenance issues, combined with the delivery of new 787 aircraft. Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop called it a transformative moment for South Island connectivity and regional tourism.
For South Island travellers, the routes offer a significant practical benefit: the ability to reach three major international hubs without first flying to Auckland, avoiding domestic connection risks including winter weather cancellations and crowded terminals. Social media reaction was enthusiastic, with many Cantabrians citing the relief of not having to transit Auckland as a key draw.
The Memorandum of Understanding signed between Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport signals a long-term commitment to the region's international growth. Tourism bodies welcomed the announcement, noting that direct access from Asia and Australia is expected to substantially increase international arrivals into the South Island.
The expansion comes at a significant moment for the city's tourism recovery, with ski season accommodation in Queenstown and Wānaka already tracking ahead of 2025 figures and operators hopeful the new routes will deliver additional visitor numbers heading into summer 2026/27.
"Not having to transit Auckland is a win. Finally, a direct flight to see the grandkids in Perth." — Social media reaction to Air New Zealand announcement
