Christchurch–Adelaide Flights Take Off As Air New Zealand Expands Trans-Tasman Network

Air New Zealand is celebrating a new milestone in its trans-Tasman network with the launch of its first-ever Christchurch–Adelaide service returning to Christchurch today.

The inaugural flight departed Christchurch on 27 October, linking New Zealand’s South Island directly with South Australia.

The seasonal service will operate twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays through to 27 March 2026, with around 15,000 seats available for travellers across the season.

Operated by a narrowbody Airbus jet, the new route gives South Islanders more choice and convenience when flying to Australia and opens the door for more Australian travellers to experience the South Island’s world-class destinations.

Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul, Lucy Hall, says:

“This new service is about more than just connecting two cities – it’s about strengthening tourism and connections between South Australia and the South Island.

“We’re excited to welcome more Australians to explore our beautiful South Island, from its world-class food and wine to its adventure and nature experiences. At the same time, this route gives Cantabrians even more convenient access to Australia – our most popular international destination – for holidays, events, and reconnecting with friends and family across the Tasman.”

Christchurch Airport Chief Executive, Justin Watson, says:

“This service is another fabulous addition to our trans-Tasman network. It builds on a strong civic and regional connection and supports more Kiwis and Aussies to explore each other’s backyards all summer.”

Adelaide Airport Managing Director, Brenton Cox, says:

“We’re proud to celebrate the launch of Adelaide’s first direct flight to Christchurch this morning — a milestone that responds to strong demand between our sister cities. Nearly 50,000 people travel between Adelaide and the South Island each year, primarily for holidays or to visit family. This new non-stop service offers a seamless gateway to world-class destinations on both sides of the Tasman, making travel more convenient and appealing for South Australians and New Zealanders alike.”

New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston, says:

“Direct connections like this one make a real difference to our tourism industry and to our regional economies. It’s fantastic to see Air New Zealand continuing to strengthen ties with Australia, supporting tourism growth on both sides of the Tasman and making it easier for visitors to experience everything New Zealand has to offer.”

South Australian Minister for Tourism, Hon Zoe Bettison MP, says:

“It is terrific news for tourism in South Australia to be launching the first-ever direct flight from New Zealand’s South Island to Adelaide.

“More direct flights into Adelaide from New Zealand – currently our State’s fourth largest tourism market – means more potential visitors coming to experience all our State has to offer.

“The direct Air New Zealand service from Christchurch is the first in a series of exciting arrivals of new routes and new airlines through to the end of the year – strengthening the world’s connection to South Australia and seeing more international airlines servicing Adelaide than ever before.”

About the service

• Route: Christchurch (CHC) – Adelaide (ADL)
• Seasonal period: 27 October 2025 – 27 March 2026
• Frequency: Twice weekly (Monday and Friday)
• Aircraft: Narrowbody Airbus jet (A320/321 neo)
• Seats available: ~15,000 across the season

Travel between Christchurch and Adelaide is available to book now at www.airnewzealand.co.nz

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