Air New Zealand has announced three new non-stop international routes ex Christchurch to Singapore, Tokyo (Narita) and Perth as part of an agreement with Christchurch Airport to grow international connectivity into the South Island.
Launching from late Oct, the new services mark a significant expansion of international flying from CHC, enabled by its 787 aircraft returning to service after being grounded due to global engine maintenance issues, and new 787 aircraft entering the fleet. The first CHC-SIN service will depart on Oct 28, followed by CHC-NRT on 28 Nov, and CHC-PER on 30 Nov.
NZ ceo Nikhil Ravishankar says the three new routes are a deliberate step to reconnect CHC directly to major global hubs in Asia, strengthen links into Australia, and change how the South Island connects to the world. “It reflects the strength of our partnership with Christchurch Airport and the work that’s gone into building this together.”
. . . Southern Hub
Christchurch Airport ceo Justin Watson says the new routes reinforce CHC’s position as a long-haul hub and gateway to the South Island.
“This is a landmark moment. Seeing multiple new international widebody services launch from Christchurch builds on the growth already happening across our international network.’’
Travel from New Zealand to Japan has seen consistent year-over-year growth, jumping from 81,000 in the Mar 2025 year to the latest 93,000. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the deal between NZ and CHC reflects a collective focus on long-term practical growth – strengthening direct connections and opening up more opportunities for the South Island. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is aimed at developing a long-term partnership. NZ has flown to the destinations before from CHC-SIN in 2020, Narita in 2015, and PER in 2019.
