Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Air New Zealand Launches New Domestic Jet Service Connecting Hamilton and Christchurch

Published on
September 18, 2025

Hamilton and Christchurch have become more closely linked, with the recent launch of Air New Zealand’s new domestic jet service, marking a significant milestone for the Waikato region. On the afternoon of the inaugural flight, Air New Zealand’s Flight NZ324, operated by an A320 aircraft, touched down at Hamilton Airport at 4:20 PM. This service connects the two cities after a 25-year hiatus of jet operations in Hamilton, offering a fresh boost to the region’s connectivity and tourism.

This new service will provide approximately 18,000 additional seats annually, with an additional 7,000 seats from enhanced ATR 72 services. In total, the combined efforts will offer around 25,000 extra seats, giving both business and leisure travelers more opportunities to journey between Hamilton and Christchurch.

Air New Zealand Expands Services for Waikato Region

The return of a jet service to Hamilton is a significant development for the Waikato region. For 25 years, Hamilton had been without direct jet services, which limited the ease with which locals and visitors could travel to the South Island. Air New Zealand’s new route directly addresses this gap, with a daily service offering increased convenience for travelers.

Additionally, the airline has introduced its iconic Koru Hour on the new flight, a hallmark of Air New Zealand’s premium service. Passengers flying from Hamilton to Christchurch at 5:05 PM are now treated to a selection of New Zealand wines, premium beers, and non-alcoholic beverages, accompanied by the classic cheese and crackers pairing. This service reflects the airline’s ongoing commitment to offering high-quality in-flight experiences. The inaugural flight also featured an extended Koru Hour, offering cider from Waikato’s Good George Brewing, along with Aotearoa Chocolate pretzels.

A Strong Step for Regional Tourism and Trade

The launch of this new service is expected to have a wide-reaching impact on both tourism and trade between the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Christchurch and Hamilton are both major contributors to New Zealand’s economy, with each region known for its thriving industries, strong communities, and robust tourism offerings.

With this new route, travelers can enjoy easier access to events, business opportunities, and family connections between the two cities. It also provides a boost to local businesses, especially in the tourism sector. As part of the launch, travelers arriving at Hamilton Airport received a warm welcome, including promotional gifts from popular local attractions like Hobbiton Movie Set, Hamilton Gardens, Zealong Tea Estate, and Waitomo Caves. This gesture highlights the local commitment to promoting the Waikato as a key tourism destination.

Strengthening Regional Partnerships for Growth

This new domestic service has not only been celebrated by Air New Zealand but also by local authorities and airport executives. The addition of the jet service to Hamilton further establishes the city as a regional hub, facilitating greater accessibility for locals, businesses, and international visitors.

The Waikato Regional Airport is now positioned to become a more central part of New Zealand’s air travel network, with more flights arriving and departing to and from the region. According to the Chief Executive of Christchurch Airport, the new service fosters a greater sense of regional cooperation between Hamilton and Christchurch. By strengthening this connection, both cities are set to benefit from enhanced trade, tourism, and business links, further positioning them as important contributors to the New Zealand economy.

Increased Access for Communities and New Opportunities

Air New Zealand’s new service is seen as a strategic move that will help communities on both sides of the route thrive. Regional Minister James Meager remarked that this service offers real benefits for people looking to travel for business, personal reasons, or leisure activities. It’s a practical solution for residents of both Hamilton and Christchurch who need access to each other’s vibrant cities.

The addition of the A320 jet service is also reflective of Air New Zealand’s broader growth strategy, which focuses on expanding services in regions where there is clear demand. This strategy has already proven successful in other regions, such as the Invercargill-Auckland route introduced in 2019. The airline’s expansion plans aim to provide greater access to regions, which can only serve to enhance economic activity and facilitate stronger tourism growth.

The Economic Benefits for the Waikato Region

The introduction of the jet service to Hamilton is a turning point for the region’s economy. As more flights are made available, visitors will be able to access Waikato’s renowned attractions, such as the Hobbiton Movie Set and the beautiful Hamilton Gardens, with greater ease. This will undoubtedly encourage more tourists to visit the region, leading to increased tourism revenues.

In addition to tourism, the new flight route offers considerable advantages to the business sector, making it easier for professionals to travel between the two regions. It also opens the door for more international visitors to engage with Waikato’s industries, further positioning the region as an attractive destination for both leisure and commercial activities.

A Bright Future for Regional Connectivity

The new Air New Zealand service between Hamilton and Christchurch represents a bright future for regional connectivity in New Zealand. It provides a valuable connection for communities, businesses, and tourists alike, helping to strengthen the ties between two of New Zealand’s most vital regions. By offering both more travel options and enhanced in-flight experiences, Air New Zealand is playing a crucial role in bringing people together and supporting economic and tourism growth for the future.