New Queenstown–Brisbane flights boost winter links with Australia

The first flight departed on Monday 22 June, and adds 16,500 seats to Air New Zealand's trans-Tasman network. The service will operate three times a week through to 23 October 2026.  

Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul and Domestic Lucy Hall says over winter the airline has increased capacity from Australia's east coast to Queenstown by 40% and demand for the region is strong. 

"The increase in capacity and addition of our Queenstown–Brisbane route reflects the airline's commitment to growing where Kiwi travellers want to go and providing more opportunities for visitors to access the beautiful South Island directly.  

"Our role is to keep New Zealand connected, competitive and open to the world. These additional seats will not only help New Zealanders access Brisbane and Queensland more easily but will also support tourism in the South. 

"This new service is perfectly timed to align to the Queensland and New Zealand July school holiday period and we're looking forward to welcoming families on board over this period," Hall says. 

The airline is preparing to welcome more than 730,000 customers across its domestic and international network during these July school holidays. 

Queenstown is a favourite with travellers over the holiday period, with the winter playground topping the list of domestic destinations. Wellington is also set for a busy school holiday weekend as the All Blacks take on Italy on Saturday 11 July with more than 12,500 visitors expected to travel in and out of the capital over that weekend alone.  

"We're also delighted to support the Rotorua Aronui Drone Festival, 9-11 July, and Dunedin Matariki Mā Puaka Celebration, 10 July, through our Regional Events Sponsorship programme. Events like these are the perfect reason to book a trip somewhere new, and explore the region while you're there," Hall says.  

With airports expected to be bustling over the coming weeks, Air New Zealand is encouraging customers to plan ahead, especially those travelling with children or bulky winter gear.  

Air New Zealand General Manager Cabin Crew, Sarah Murray, has some experience traveling with her family and says a little preparation can make the school holiday journey smoother.  

"Many of our crew will be welcoming you onboard over the July school holidays, whether it's for a trip to the ski fields or time exploring a new destination. Younger flyers can also stay busy onboard with the return of our Kia Ora Kids magazine! It's available in lounges and onboard during the school holidays, and includes fun facts about New Zealand, acitivities and space to document their holiday.  

"Wherever you're travelling to, I hope these simple tips help you as much as they help me," says Murray.

Arrive ready 

Before you head to the airport, tick off the easy wins: 

• Download the Air NZ app so boarding passes, flight details and updates are all in one place, especially handy when your hands are full.  
• Sign up for Travel Alerts so you're across any changes before you leave home.  
• Check your booking details carefully, including names and travel dates. Even a small typo can slow things down at check-in.  
• Consider travel insurance, particularly for winter travel, when weather-related disruptions can be more common.  

Build some buffer 

Building in buffer reduces stress for everyone. School holidays are always busier than travelling at other times, and families often have extra layers in winter, like coats, boots, prams, car seats or ski gear. Give yourself extra time to get to the airport, check-in, drop your bags, then through security.  

Carry-on, checked bags, and clever packing 

Before you start packing, check your checked baggage allowance and carry-on limits, including the weight of any bags you plan to bring onboard. For domestic travel with Air New Zealand you can have carry-on bag that weighs of up to 7kgs plus one personal item such as a laptop bag or handbag.  

Carry-on baggage is one area where families can sometimes get caught out, especially when kids have their own backpacks and you're carrying snacks, entertainment, spare clothes and winter gear.  

If you think you'll need more baggage, it's best to book it in advance rather than sorting it at the airport, where it can create extra stress and cost.  

Packing cells are also a great way to keep children's clothing organised, whether by child, or clothing type, and makes unpacking much easier once you arrive.