Air New Zealand has announced new non-stop international routes from Christchurch Airport (CHC) to Singapore, Tokyo and Perth, marking a significant expansion of the airline’s South Island operations.
The three new services, set to launch in late October and November 2026, are part of an agreement between Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport to grow international connectivity into the region.
New routes and launch dates
The first Christchurch-Singapore service will depart on October 28, 2026, connecting the South Island directly to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN). Flights to Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo will begin on November 28, 2026, followed by Perth Airport (PER) on November 30, 2026.
#NEW: @FlyAirNZ is launching new flights from @ChangiAirport to Christchurch, New Zealand! 🇳🇿
Flying three times weekly to Christchurch from October 2026*, these flights will be serviced by the Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
*Subject to regulatory approval. pic.twitter.com/j1oRznO3zq
— Changi Airport (@ChangiAirport) May 20, 2026
This expansion has been made possible by the return of Air New Zealand’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which had been grounded due to global engine maintenance issues, along with new 787s entering the fleet.
Flights are now on sale, subject to regulatory approval.
Long-term partnership
Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a long-term partnership. The agreement will see both organizations align on network development, with a focus on sustainable growth, improved customer experience, and stronger international connections for the South Island.
Air New Zealand Chief Executive Nikhil Ravishankar noted that the new routes reflect the airline’s ability to grow again after fleet challenges.
“As New Zealand’s national airline we think about connectivity at a country level — where we can help open up the greatest value and opportunities for customers, for regions, and for the economy,” Ravishankar said. “With aircraft returning to service, we’re now in the fantastic position of being able to grow again, and we are delighted this is going to happen in the South Island.”
Christchurch Airport Chief Executive Justin Watson suggested that the expansion reinforces Christchurch’s position as a gateway to the South Island.
“This is a landmark moment,” Watson said. “Seeing multiple new international widebody services launch from Christchurch builds on the growth already happening across our international network and creates major opportunities for freight exporters, the tourism sector and our wider economy.”
Government support
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston welcomed the announcement, noting that both Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport were represented on the Prime Minister’s recent trade mission to Singapore.
“This agreement between Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport reflects a collective focus on long-term practical growth, strengthening direct connections and opening up more opportunities for the South Island,” Upston said.
The three routes are not completely new territory for Air New Zealand, though. The airline previously operated a Christchurch-Singapore service in 2020, Christchurch-Narita in 2015, and Christchurch-Perth in 2019.
