Flying On: Popular Christchurch–Adelaide Route Extended

Strong demand over the summer months has led to the seasonal direct route between sister cities Christchurch and Adelaide being extended, meaning South Islanders will be able to book flights direct between Christchurch and Adelaide until 1 May 2026.

Air New Zealand began flying the new route in late October last year, with the seasonal service originally planned to cease in late March. The service is being extended through to autumn, making it even easier for Kiwis in the South Island to explore South Australia.

Regional Manager, New Zealand, for the South Australia Tourism Commission, Stacey Kerr says the extension reflects how much Kiwi travellers are enjoying everything that South Australia has to offer.

“With 58% of Kiwi travellers looking for new destinations to discover and a buzzing festival season about to commence including LIV Golf Adelaide, Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide, Adelaide is the perfect destination for an easy and enticing getaway. The extended flight season is fantastic news for mainlanders as it means they can enjoy the convenience of the new direct flights for longer. The Friday and Monday four hour flights make South Australia perfect for a long weekend, and even more appealing for Kiwis looking for a ‘something different’ holiday.”

Kerr went on to say that Kiwi travellers enjoy exploring Adelaide city and its wide array of arts, culture and sporting events, along with the famous wine regions like Barossa and Clare Valley. They are also discovering the beauty of destinations further afield, like the Flinders Ranges & Outback and Kangaroo Island.”

The latest results to September 2025** show that international expenditure into South Australia grew by 23% with 40,000 visitors coming from New Zealand. Kiwis are staying longer too, staying on average 13.5 nights (up from 11 nights), meaning they can tick off a number of regions around Adelaide during their stay.

Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul and Domestic Lucy Hall says the airline is excited to see the route extended beyond the originally planned season.

“The extension follows strong demand since the route launched on 27 October 2025. It’s also opened up more opportunities for our South Island customers to head across the ditch and explore more of what Australia has to offer.

“Maintaining the twice weekly schedule has proven popular, offering customers a convenient way to maximise time on both sides of the Tasman. It is a great result for our customers in the South Island and a clear signal that this route is doing what we hoped it would do, enabling connections between the two cities.”

Flight Details:

• Route: Christchurch (CHC) – Adelaide (ADL)

• Seasonal Period: Last flight from CHC on 1 May 2026

• Frequency: Twice weekly (Monday and Friday)

• Aircraft: Narrowbody Airbus jet (A320/321 neo)

• Tickets are available to book now at airnewzealand.co.nz

**International Visitor Survey (IVS) for the 12months ending September 2025.

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