Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Breaking News: Air New Zealand Launches Christchurch to Adelaide Service – A New Gateway for Kiwi and Aussie Travelers!
Published on
October 28, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
Air New Zealand has launched its inaugural direct service between Christchurch and Adelaide, further solidifying its trans-Tasman network. The new seasonal service took off on October 27, 2025, and is set to connect New Zealand’s South Island with South Australia, offering a direct gateway for both Australian and Kiwi travelers.
This milestone marks the first-ever direct flight between Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island, and Adelaide, a vibrant cultural hub in South Australia. The flights will operate twice a week on Mondays and Fridays, running until March 27, 2026. A total of 15,000 seats are available for travelers during the season, with the route expected to foster stronger tourism ties between the two regions.
What’s New
The Christchurch–Adelaide service is Air New Zealand’s latest addition to its growing trans-Tasman network. The route, operated by a narrowbody Airbus jet (A320/321 neo), provides more choices for South Island residents looking to travel to Australia, while offering Australian tourists convenient access to the South Island’s world-class destinations.
The flights, departing from Christchurch on Monday and Friday mornings, give passengers from Adelaide a seamless travel experience to New Zealand’s spectacular South Island. These flights are also expected to cater to the growing demand from South Australians seeking easy access to the stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and renowned food and wine experiences of New Zealand.
Why This New Service Matters
Air New Zealand’s expansion of its trans-Tasman network comes at a time when tourism between New Zealand and Australia is on the rise. The Christchurch–Adelaide route is expected to boost economic activity, benefiting both regions’ tourism industries. The service will allow Australians to visit New Zealand more easily, bringing increased opportunities for the tourism sector in Christchurch and its surrounding regions.
Adelaide, which is the fourth largest tourism market for South Australia, stands to benefit from the new flight by making it easier for visitors from New Zealand to explore the state’s cultural landmarks and natural beauty. From the historic Barossa Valley wine region to the pristine coastline of Kangaroo Island, South Australia offers a variety of attractions that are now more accessible to New Zealanders.
When and Where
The Christchurch–Adelaide flights operate twice a week, every Monday and Friday, with a seasonal period extending from October 27, 2025, to March 27, 2026. The flights depart from Christchurch Airport (CHC) in New Zealand, heading to Adelaide Airport (ADL) in South Australia. The new service is expected to enhance travel options for passengers across both nations and strengthen the tourism connection between these two regions.
Christchurch and Adelaide are both important hubs in their respective countries, with Christchurch being a popular starting point for tourists looking to explore New Zealand’s South Island, including its national parks, adventure tourism spots, and world-class food and wine experiences. Similarly, Adelaide is renowned for its rich cultural scene, making the new route highly attractive to travelers looking to visit both destinations.
How the Service is Operated
The service is operated using Air New Zealand’s narrowbody Airbus A320/321 neo aircraft, which are designed to offer a comfortable and efficient flying experience for passengers. With around 15,000 seats available throughout the seasonal period, the new route offers ample capacity for travelers across both directions.
This seasonal service aims to cater to the growing demand for direct trans-Tasman flights between New Zealand and Australia, which continues to increase as both countries recover from the global pandemic and see a rise in regional tourism. The flights will be a welcome addition for travelers in both regions, providing them with a convenient and direct option for cross-Tasman travel.
Impact on Tourism
The launch of the Christchurch–Adelaide service is expected to have a significant positive impact on tourism in both destinations. For South Australia, this new direct route from Christchurch makes Adelaide more accessible to New Zealand travelers, potentially increasing visitor numbers to the state’s major attractions. Adelaide is already a favorite for Kiwis seeking a cultural getaway, and this new route is expected to make the city even more appealing.
In Christchurch, the new flights are likely to see an increase in the number of Australian visitors, who will now have easier access to the region’s natural beauty and cultural experiences. Tourism operators in Christchurch are looking forward to the seasonal service helping to boost their businesses during the summer months, as Australian travelers head to New Zealand to experience its world-class scenery and outdoor activities.
Strengthening Ties Between New Zealand and Australia
The Christchurch–Adelaide flight service is not just about easier travel; it also represents an opportunity to strengthen the economic and tourism ties between New Zealand and Australia. The new route is an example of how airlines can play a key role in supporting tourism recovery and fostering closer connections between neighboring countries.
According to industry experts, the growth of direct flight services like this one contributes significantly to the development of both nations’ tourism industries. The route will not only boost tourism but also provide business opportunities and foster closer cultural ties, making travel between New Zealand and Australia more accessible for both business and leisure purposes.
In conclusion, the launch of the Christchurch–Adelaide direct flight service marks a major step forward for Air New Zealand’s trans-Tasman network. With two weekly flights available throughout the summer season, this new route offers more choices for travelers and promises to enhance tourism between New Zealand’s South Island and South Australia. As both regions continue to recover from the global pandemic, this new connection serves as a vital link in strengthening their economic and cultural ties.
