Air New Zealand helps regional connections blossom with new jet link between Hamilton and Christchurch
Spring marks a season of growth for Air New Zealand, with today's launch of a new domestic jet service between Christchurch and Hamilton.
Flight NZ324 from Christchurch touched down in Hamilton at 4.20pm, marking the city's first domestic jet service in 25 years. The new A320 jet services will contribute around 18,000 extra seats annually, with a further 7000 seats added through enhancements to the ATR 72 schedule, delivering around 25,000 additional seats in total.
The jet service also brings a much-loved perk for Waikato travellers: Air New Zealand's iconic Koru Hour. Customers on the 5.05pm flight from Hamilton to Christchurch will be treated to New Zealand wines, premium beers and non-alcoholic options, with the classic cheese and crackers pairing.
To celebrate the inaugural flight, customers today enjoyed an extended Koru Hour on both legs of the service, featuring cider from Waikato favourite Good George Brewing and Aotearoa Chocolate pretzels alongside the usual offerings.
On arrival at Hamilton Airport, travellers received a warm Waikato welcome, with goodies from Hobbiton Movie Set, Hamilton Gardens, Zealong Tea Estate and Waitomo Caves.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran says the addition of the jet service reflects the airline's commitment to growing where there is demand.
"This is the second time we've introduced a jet on a regional route, following the success of Invercargill-Auckland in 2019. Growth means greater access for communities, more support for tourism and trade, and more opportunities for New Zealanders to thrive. That's something we're incredibly proud to deliver."
Associate Transport and South Island Minister James Meager says the new service is a win for regional connectivity.
"This jet connection between Hamilton and Christchurch is great news, making it easier for people to travel for events, business, and to visit loved ones. It will bring real benefits to communities at both ends of the route."
Waikato Regional Airport Chief Executive Mark Morgan says the new service underlines the importance of the Waikato as a regional hub.
"This is a milestone moment for the Waikato. Having a domestic jet service return to Hamilton after 25 years is a real boost for our community and economy, giving our people greater access to the South Island, while also making it easier for visitors and businesses to connect with the Waikato."
Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson says the two regions are natural partners, with plenty to gain from stronger air links.
"Canterbury and Waikato are two of New Zealand's powerhouse regions, each with thriving communities, strong economies and proud identities. Growing this connection is not just great news for travellers, but also for trade, tourism and business links between the South and the North."
ENDS
Issued by Air New Zealand Communications
Email: media@airnz.co.nz │ Phone: +64 21 747 320
About Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand's story started in 1940, first taking to the skies between Auckland and Sydney on a flying boat - a Short S30. Known for its warm Kiwi hospitality, today, the airline has operating aircraft ranging from Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and Airbus A320s to ATRs and Q300s, offering customers comfort in the latest most efficient jets and turboprops. It's a modern fuel-efficient fleet with an average age of 9.9 years. Air New Zealand's global network of passenger and cargo services centres around New Zealand. In 2024, the airline flew more than 16 million passengers. Air New Zealand was named 2025 World's Safest Airline by the Australian rating service AirlineRatings.com, highlighting the airline's laser-focus on safety.
Air New Zealand has a well-connected domestic business, connecting customers and cargo to 20 different regions around New Zealand. Internationally, the airline has direct flights to major cities across Australia, the Pacific Islands, Asia and North America, and through its strong relationships with alliance partners, offers customers more choice and convenience to connect further afield to hundreds of destinations. Air New Zealand has a particular focus on sustainability and its Sustainability Framework helps guide the airline's efforts in tackling some of New Zealand's and the world's most complex challenges. Airpoints, Air New Zealand's loyalty programme, is seen as the most valuable loyalty programme in New Zealand with more than 4 million members. It allows members to earn Airpoints Dollars™ and Status Points for VIP benefits in the air and on the ground. Air New Zealand aircraft are proudly identified by its distinct tail livery of the Mangōpare, the Māori symbol of the hammerhead shark which represents strength, tenacity, and resilience.
About Star Alliance
The Star Alliance network was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance, based on a customer value proposition of global reach, worldwide recognition and seamless service. Since inception, it has offered the largest and most comprehensive airline network, with a focus on improving customer experience across the Alliance journey.
The member airlines are: Aegean Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, Air India, Air New Zealand, ANA, Asiana Airlines, Austrian, Avianca, Brussels Airlines, Copa Airlines, Croatia Airlines, EGYPTAIR, Ethiopian Airlines, EVA Air, LOT Polish Airlines, Lufthansa, Scandinavian Airlines, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, SWISS, TAP Air Portugal, THAI, Turkish Airlines, and United.
Overall, the Star Alliance network currently offers more than 16,000 daily flights to almost 1,200 airports in 186 countries. Further connecting flights are offered by Star Alliance Connecting Partners Juneyao Airlines and THAI Smile Airways.
For more information about Air New Zealand visit www.airnewzealand.com and for more information about Star Alliance visit www.staralliance.com