Christchurch Airport Welcomes Air New Zealand’s First Direct Flight from Adelaide, Strengthening Trans-Tasman Ties
(IN SHORT) Christchurch Airport celebrated the inaugural Air New Zealand flight from Adelaide, strengthening ties between the South Island and South Australia. The milestone follows over five decades of sister-city collaboration between Christchurch and Adelaide and supports increased travel, tourism, and cultural exchange between the regions. The launch ceremony featured a kapa haka performance and official remarks from Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson, Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul Lucy Hall, and Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger. The twice-weekly seasonal service, running from late October 2025 to March 2026, will connect travelers across both regions and further enhance the trans-Tasman network.
(PRESS RELEASE) CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand, 2025-Oct-28 — /Travel PR News/ — Christchurch Airport marked a milestone in regional connectivity with the arrival of Air New Zealand’s first-ever direct flight from Adelaide, ushering in a new era of travel between the South Island and South Australia. The inaugural service was celebrated with a lively kapa haka welcome and an official ceremony attended by Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson, Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul Lucy Hall, and Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger.
The launch deepens the long-standing bond between Christchurch and Adelaide, which have shared a sister-city relationship for more than 50 years. A Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2022 reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in tourism, trade, education, and culture. This new direct route transforms that partnership into a tangible travel link, providing New Zealanders with seamless access to South Australia’s acclaimed wine regions and cultural attractions while making it easier for Australians to discover the South Island’s alpine landscapes, adventure sports, and renowned hospitality.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of a new ‘Adelaide blade’ on the airport’s international destination signpost—an emblem of growing global connections and shared discovery. Justin Watson said the addition enriches Christchurch Airport’s trans-Tasman network, supporting reciprocal tourism and closer regional ties. Mayor Phil Mauger echoed this sentiment, describing the new service as an “awesome opportunity” that builds on half a century of civic friendship. Air New Zealand’s Lucy Hall emphasised that the route represents more than just a flight—it’s a bridge fostering stronger tourism and community links between South Australia and the South Island.
Operating twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays from 27 October 2025 to 27 March 2026, the seasonal service will use Airbus A320/321neo aircraft, offering approximately 15,000 seats across the season.
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SOURCE: Christchurch International Airport
