Air New Zealand has unveiled a major international expansion from Christchurch with three new non-stop routes to Singapore, Tokyo (Narita) and Perth, set to transform South Island connectivity from late October 2026.
New Route Launch Dates
The airline’s 787 Dreamliners will operate these services with the following launch dates:
- Christchurch to Singapore: 28 October 2026
- Christchurch to Tokyo Narita: 28 November 2026
- Christchurch to Perth: 30 November 2026
Flights are now on sale, subject to regulatory approval.
Return of the 787 Fleet
This expansion has been made possible by Air New Zealand’s 787 aircraft returning to service after being grounded due to global engine maintenance issues, along with new 787s entering the fleet. The timing couldn’t be better for travelers seeking direct international connections from the South Island.
Strategic Partnership with Christchurch Airport
Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop a long-term partnership focused on:
- Sustainable growth for the region
- Improved customer experience
- Stronger international connections for the South Island
- Aligned long-term planning and network development
Boosting South Island Tourism and Trade
Air New Zealand CEO Nikhil Ravishankar emphasized the airline’s focus on connectivity at a country level: “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.”
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston highlighted the broader economic benefits: “This agreement reflects a collective focus on long-term practical growth - strengthening direct connections and opening up more opportunities for the South Island.”
Historical Context
These aren’t entirely new routes for Air New Zealand:
- The airline previously operated Christchurch-Singapore until 2020
- Christchurch-Tokyo Narita services ran until 2015
- Christchurch-Perth flights operated until 2019
The resumption of these routes signals confidence in post-pandemic travel recovery and South Island tourism growth.
What This Means for Travelers
For South Island residents and visitors, these new routes offer:
- Direct access to Southeast Asia via the Singapore hub, connecting to destinations across Asia, Europe and beyond
- Non-stop flights to Japan, perfect for ski tourism and cultural exchanges
- Improved trans-Tasman connectivity with direct Perth access, avoiding connections via Australian east coast cities
Christchurch Airport CEO Justin Watson called it “a landmark moment” that “builds on the growth already happening across our international network and creates major opportunities for freight exporters, the tourism sector and our wider economy.”
Booking Information
Travelers can book these new services immediately through Air New Zealand’s website or travel agents. As these are new route launches, expect competitive introductory fares and the possibility of promotional pricing in the coming weeks.
With Air New Zealand recently named the 2025 World’s Safest Airline by AirlineRatings.com, passengers can look forward to experiencing the airline’s renowned Kiwi hospitality on modern, fuel-efficient 787-9 Dreamliners when these services commence later this year.