Air New Zealand Announce New Services From Christchurch

Air New Zealand has just announced three new international non-stop services from Christchurch International Airport. Travellers will see Singapore, Tokyo Narita, and Perth as the new routes commencing late 2026. The new services will be operated on the Dreamliner 787-9 aircraft, providing South Islanders more direct travel options and greater choice. 

These new routes will not only provide better, direct options, but it’s great for those looking to travel round the world. Enjoy new Asian gateways that will open up more connections and cities to visit on your next round the world trip.

Learn more about the new routes by reading below. Or contact one of our Airfare Specialists to lock in your next adventure. 

What Are the New Air New Zealand Routes?

Seasonal services between Christchurch and Singapore will begin on Wednesday 28 October 2026, through to late March 2027. It will operate three times per week on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. You’ll depart Christchurch at 17:20 and arrive later that night at 22:55. The return flight from Singapore will be just after midnight at 00:40.

South Islanders will also be happy to see Tokyo Narita operated with seasonal services from Christchurch. This will commence on Saturday 28 November 2026 and operate until early May 2027- just in time to visit the beautiful Cherry Blossoms. This service will fly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Depart during the day from Christchurch at 12:35 and arrive at 20:10 that evening. The return flight will depart Tokyo Narita at 21.40 and arrive the following day after midday at 12:50. 

Perth has also been added to Air New Zealand’s list from Christchurch. Seasonal services will commence on Monday 30 November, operating three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. You’ll depart Christchurch at 17:45 and arrive in Perth at 19:45 that evening. The return flight leaves Perth at 21:15 and lands back in Christchurch the following morning at 8:15. All times are local time.

The Air New Zealand Business Class Product

Air New Zealand’s 787-9 has two distinct Business Class products. The airline’s older 787-9 Dreamliner Business Class product is getting a little dated but can still offer a relatively comfortable experience when the price is right. The cabin features a herringbone style configuration, meaning all seats face the aisle with limited privacy. Even though the layout is not our favourite, Air NZ is praised for its warm, Kiwi hospitality and comfortable fully flat beds when converted from the seated position.

The refurbished 787-9 Dreamliner Business Class product is definitely a big step up from its old cabin. On top of its standard Business Premier seats, it also features Business Premier Luxe, focusing on privacy, personal space, and overall travel experience.

The retrofit program is set to be complete by the end of 2026, so your chances of being on the new fit out are quite high. We suggest getting in touch with one of our airfare specialists who can take a closer look at the routes and products for you. See our Air New Zealand Business Class deals to explore further.