The South Australian Tourism Commission is celebrating record air capacity between New Zealand and the state as its local manager Stacey Kerr urges agents to take a fresh look at the destination.
Air New Zealand operates a year-round Auckland-Adelaide service, five times a week, and has confirmed that its twice-weekly Christchurch ADL seasonal flights will be back next year, following the success of its inaugural season.
Qantas has announced plans to continue its seasonal AKL-ADL flights in 2027, four times a week; and more recently Qatar Airways has relaunched its AKL-ADL-Doha daily route, from 18 Jun.
This record level of capacity means ‘it’s never been easier to get to Adelaide and South Australia’, adds Kerr. “With 58% of Kiwi travellers looking for new destinations to discover, Adelaide is the perfect destination for an easy and enticing getaway.”
The additional flights also give agents more options when selling the state, says Kerr, particularly the short break/long weekend market.
The state has many travel drawcards, such as its renowned wine and food, but SA’s events line-up is also driving Kiwi demand.
“According to our latest research, Kiwis’ interest in city-based travel experiences has skyrocketed, jumping from 28% last year to 59% in 2026, reflecting a growing appetite for quick urban escapes and weekend getaways, and events often act as a trigger to book.”
. . . Micro Trips
Kerr says the figures also highlight the growing demand for micro trips and long weekend getaways of one four days.
“Travellers want the simplicity of a short stay paired with a single stand out experience, such as food, culture or events. In South Australia this is easy with Adelaide the ideal base to explore McLaren Vale, Barossa and Adelaide Hills”.
And as micro trip demand continues to grow in popularity, Kerr says Adelaide is perfectly placed to deliver ‘an unforgettable city escape’, particularly for foodies.
