Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Air New Zealand Expands Routes in December 2025: New Flights from New Zealand to Australia, the Pacific Islands, Taiwan, Bali, Hong Kong, and China

Published on
September 20, 2025

Air New Zealand is set to enhance its flight network with new services in December 2025, increasing its reach to both regional and international destinations. These new routes, along with an expansion of existing services, are designed to provide passengers with more travel options and better connectivity to popular global destinations. Whether you’re traveling within New Zealand, exploring the Pacific Islands, or venturing to international hotspots, Air New Zealand’s December 2025 schedule will offer exciting opportunities for both leisure and business travelers.

New Seasonal Route: Christchurch to Adelaide

Air New Zealand will introduce a seasonal service between Christchurch and Adelaide starting October 28, 2025. This new route, operating twice a week on Mondays and Fridays, will be serviced by Airbus A320 or A321 aircraft. This addition will provide approximately 15,000 seats throughout the season, offering easier access between New Zealand’s South Island and Australia.

The demand for a direct connection between Christchurch and Adelaide has been steadily growing, particularly for business travelers and tourists who want to explore both cities without the hassle of connecting flights. The service is part of a collaboration between Adelaide and Christchurch airports that was formalized in 2022. The introduction of this route comes at a time when Australian tourism to New Zealand is rebounding, with Christchurch seeing a surge in visitors interested in its outdoor activities, art scene, and cultural heritage.

This route will also enhance the accessibility of Christchurch’s scenic landscapes, making it easier for Australians to explore New Zealand’s South Island, including Queenstown, Mount Cook, and the Southern Alps.

Expanding Trans-Tasman Services

As Air New Zealand continues to dominate the Trans-Tasman market, the airline has increased capacity on several routes to meet the growing demand for travel between New Zealand and Australia. In December 2025, travelers can look forward to expanded services to popular Australian destinations, including Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Auckland to Perth

Air New Zealand will significantly enhance its service between Auckland and Perth by adding almost 30,000 additional seats for the summer season. This increase in capacity will see flights going from daily services to nine flights per week. This expansion is expected to cater to both leisure travelers heading to Western Australia and those flying for business purposes.

The increased frequency on this route will ensure that both New Zealanders and Australians have more options for direct flights, making it easier to travel between the two cities without the need for connecting flights.

Auckland to Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane

In addition to Perth, Air New Zealand will also ramp up its services between Auckland and Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, offering 16,000 additional seats on the Sydney route and increasing flights during peak periods. Up to 13 wide-body flights per week will operate between Auckland and Sydney, offering more premium seating for travelers looking for extra comfort.

Similarly, the airline will increase its capacity on the Melbourne and Brisbane routes, ensuring that the flights cater to the growing demand for travel between New Zealand and Australia. By introducing more flights and adding wide-body aircraft, Air New Zealand is making it more convenient for travelers to access these popular destinations, whether for tourism, business, or family visits.

Expanding Services to the Pacific Islands

As the Pacific Islands continue to grow in popularity among travelers from New Zealand, Air New Zealand is boosting its services to several key destinations in the region. From increased frequency on existing routes to new connections, these additions are sure to make the Pacific Islands more accessible to New Zealanders seeking adventure or relaxation in tropical paradises.

Auckland to Rarotonga

In response to increased demand, Air New Zealand will introduce additional capacity on its Auckland to Rarotongaroute, adding 8,000 seats during the peak summer period. This route will feature between 11 and 12 flights per week in December 2025, providing ample opportunities for travelers to visit the stunning Cook Islands. Known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and vibrant Polynesian culture, Rarotonga is an increasingly popular destination for both short getaways and longer vacations.

Auckland to Nadi

Similarly, Air New Zealand will increase its services to Nadi, Fiji, with 8,600 additional seats on the route. With up to 11 weekly flights during peak periods, travelers will have more options to experience the tropical beauty of Fiji, from its stunning beaches to its rich cultural heritage. Nadi has long been a favorite for those looking to escape to a tropical paradise, and this expanded service will allow more New Zealanders to enjoy this idyllic destination.

Auckland to Papeete

For travelers interested in exploring Tahiti and the French Polynesian Islands, Air New Zealand will increase its flights to Papeete, the capital of Tahiti, with an additional 1,600 seats and a 37% increase in premium seating. This route continues to be popular for those seeking a luxurious tropical getaway, with Papeete offering a unique combination of beautiful landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and world-class resorts.

New International Connections

Beyond the Pacific Islands, Air New Zealand is also expanding its international network in December 2025. These new routes will allow travelers to explore exciting destinations in Asia and Europe, offering more convenience and better connectivity to key global markets.

Auckland to Taipei

Starting December 2025, Air New Zealand will increase its flights from Auckland to Taipei, adding an additional 11,800 seats on the route. With the demand for travel between New Zealand and Taiwan on the rise, this expansion will offer better access to the growing Taiwanese market and provide travelers with more opportunities to visit this vibrant city known for its culinary delights, modern architecture, and rich cultural heritage.

Auckland to Bali

As part of its push to cater to the increasing demand for travel to Indonesia, Air New Zealand will also be expanding its Auckland to Bali route by 49%, increasing the premium seating options and adding 2,400 extra seats. This popular route offers travelers access to the cultural heart of Bali, with its lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Bali continues to be a top destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Auckland to Hong Kong and Shanghai

With the growing demand for travel to Asia, Air New Zealand will also increase its services to Hong Kong and Shanghai, with both routes seeing a rise in premium seating. This will provide better access for those looking to connect with key business hubs in China and Hong Kong, as well as catering to the growing tourism market.

Conclusion: Air New Zealand’s Expanded Reach in December 2025

The introduction of new routes and expanded services by Air New Zealand in December 2025 signals the airline’s commitment to meeting the demands of travelers seeking more options and improved connectivity. Whether it’s new regional routes like Christchurch to Adelaide, expanded services to the Pacific Islands, or enhanced international connections to Asia, Air New Zealand is making it easier for travelers to explore the world and connect with key global destinations. With more flights, increased frequencies, and better premium seating options, Air New Zealand continues to solidify its position as a leading carrier for both domestic and international travel.