BRISBANE- Australia is set to strengthen its air links with New Zealand as Air New Zealand (NZ) expands capacity across major Trans-Tasman routes. The airline will add 63,000 extra seats next year by upgrading aircraft and increasing frequencies to meet rising demand from both leisure and business travelers.
Brisbane Airport (BNE) confirmed that New Zealand remains its leading international two-way market, reinforcing the importance of this expansion. The added capacity will support growing travel flows between Brisbane and key New Zealand gateways, including Auckland (AKL), Christchurch (CHC), and Wellington (WLG).
Photo: Hobart Airport
Air New Zealand’s Capacity Growth
Air New Zealand will grow Brisbane–Auckland capacity by 12 percent from March to October 2026. The Brisbane–Christchurch and Brisbane–Wellington routes will each see a 7 percent increase, reflecting stable and sustained demand.
The airline is also launching a new seasonal service between Brisbane and Queenstown (ZQN), which will operate from June through October.
Officials say the expansion will provide more seats during peak travel months, giving travelers greater flexibility. The strategy aligns with broader market trends showing continued Trans-Tasman growth as tourism, business travel and VFR traffic remain strong.
Photo: Mitchul Hope | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Air_New_Zealand_A320neo_ZK-NHE.jpg
Government Support
Queensland leaders welcomed the announcement, emphasizing the benefits for the state’s tourism and economic outlook.
They noted that boosting air access is a key priority under Destination 2045, the long-term aviation and tourism growth strategy.
Air New Zealand said strong traveler interest on both sides of the Tasman continues to drive decision-making around schedules and fleet allocation.
More New Zealanders are choosing Brisbane for its outdoor lifestyle and warm climate, while Queenslanders increasingly travel to New Zealand’s cities, ski regions, and adventure destinations.
Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said “the announcement was a win for the whole state“:
Queensland is the home of the holiday—and it belongs on every traveller’s bucket list….As part of Destination 2045, we promised to secure more strategic connections to make it easier for tourists to visit Queensland, and that’s what we’re delivering.
Photo: Brisbane Airport
Brisbane Airport Outlook
Brisbane Airport reported a busy forecast for the coming year, with international travel expected to rise 9 percent during the summer holiday season.
It now offers nonstop connections to 35 international destinations as it prepares to handle a record 25 million passengers in 2025.
The airport is investing $5 billion in infrastructure upgrades over the next five years through its Future BNE transformation program.
The expanded New Zealand network aligns with these long-term plans to support capacity, enhance travel options and attract further carrier growth.
Photo: G B_NZ | Wikimedia Commons
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Air_New_Zealand_A320_ZK-OJC_at_AKL_(27804562754).jpg
Bottom Line
Air New Zealand’s decision to add 63,000 seats and launch a new Queenstown service significantly enhances Brisbane’s Trans-Tasman connectivity.
The route upgrades will support tourism, trade, and family travel while contributing to record passenger volumes at Brisbane Airport.
With strong government backing and a clear rise in demand, the expanded schedule positions both markets for a robust 2026 travel season.
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