Air New Zealand launched its refreshed loyalty program today, with greater rewards for its highest value customers and will also soon introduce a feature to help members retain their status.
Years in development, Koru replaces the Airpoints program for five million members. NZ says it provides a simpler, more rewarding platform.
Chief commercial officer Scott Wilkinson says the changes reflect what customers have been asking for. “We’ve listened closely to our members,” he adds. “They told us they want a simpler program with clear, relevant bene f its, and Koru is our response.”
. . . Retaining Status
Customers will carry across their existing Airpoints and Status Points. Those who currently hold Airpoints Gold status will transition to Koru Gold.
Koru Gold benefits include milestone Status Rewards as well as two recognition upgrades each membership year.
Status Retain, launching later this month, will offer more support for customers with Koru Gold, Koru Platinum or Koru Black status who are close to the threshold, helping them maintain their status if they fall just short.
Koru Black members will be able to share benefits with friends or family through Koru Circle.
. . . Bronze Entry
The entry point is Koru Bronze where customers can earn points with more than 40 partners across everyday categories. Koru will expand with new partners, more ways to earn and use points, and expanded travel experiences over time.
. . . New AKL Lounge
Construction of the new Koru Premier Lounge is due to begin later this year at Auckland International Airport.
The footprint will nearly double the under-pressure existing one and will incorporate two distinct spaces: one for Platinum and Koru Black customers, and another for Koru Gold, Star Alliance Gold, Koru Silver and Koru Club members.
