About New Zealand Airlines
New Zealand Airlines is the national carrier of New Zealand, providing both domestic and international passenger and cargo services. The airline was founded in 1965 following the merger of Tasman Empire Airways Limited (TEAL) and New Zealand National Airways Corporation (NAC). Headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand Airlines has an extensive domestic network serving major cities and regional destinations across both the North and South Islands.
Internationally, New Zealand Airlines flies to destinations in Australia, the South Pacific, Asia, North America and Europe. The airline operates a modern, fuel-efficient fleet consisting of Boeing and Airbus aircraft. Its international long-haul services feature lie-flat business class seats and premium economy cabins.
As an airline based in New Zealand, a country renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery, New Zealand Airlines embraces its Kiwi roots. The company’s brand image emphasizes the country’s unique culture, friendliness and natural beauty.
New Zealand Airlines Contact Details
There are several ways for customers to contact New Zealand Airlines for reservations or customer support inquiries:
Phone: New Zealand Toll Free: 0800 737 000 International Callers: +64 9 357 3000
Email: customer@airnz.co.nz
Social Media: Facebook: @AirNewZealand Twitter: @FlyAirNZ
Website Contact Form: https://www.airnewzealand.co.nz/contact-us
The New Zealand Airlines website and mobile app also have 24/7 live chat features for instant feedback. Customers can easily reach an airline representative this way.
For specific inquiries regarding bookings, baggage, unaccompanied minors, and other travel-related questions, customers should select the appropriate contact option. New Zealand Airlines strives to respond promptly across all channels.
New Zealand Airlines Customer Service
Providing excellent customer service is a point of emphasis for New Zealand Airlines. The airline’s staff are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality, epitomizing the warmth that New Zealand is known for worldwide.
Customers receive service that is:
- Helpful – agents are fully trained to address questions and concerns thoroughly.
- Efficient – quick response times with minimal hold periods.
- Empathetic – understanding that travel disruptions can be stressful.
New Zealand Airlines invests heavily in customer service training for its employees. Staff are coached to maintain politeness and patience at all times when dealing with customers. Many agents are multilingual to better assist international travelers.
The airline frequently surveys customers following interactions to gauge satisfaction levels and identify areas for improvement. Customers consistently rate New Zealand Airlines’ customer service as among the best globally.
New Zealand Airlines Route Map

As New Zealand’s flag carrier, New Zealand Airlines provides the most extensive flight network to, from and within the country.
Domestic routes cover major cities like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown. The airline also serves important regional destinations such as Blenheim, Nelson and Palmerston North.
International routes connect New Zealand to global hubs in Australia, Asia, North America and Europe. Key international destinations include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Singapore, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London and Frankfurt.
Popular trans-Tasman routes connect Auckland and Christchurch to main Australian gateways like Sydney and Melbourne. New Zealand Airlines operates up to 400 weekly flights to Australia alone.
Long haul routes allow customers to travel nonstop between Auckland and global cities like Shanghai, Houston, Vancouver and Buenos Aires. The airline uses Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777s for these long-distance routes.
New Zealand Airlines codeshare partnerships with airlines like Singapore Airlines and United provide expanded connectivity to other destinations. Overall, the airline’s route network spans over 100 destinations in 20 countries.
New Zealand Airlines Flight Destinations
From its Auckland and Christchurch hubs, New Zealand Airlines flights to an extensive range of domestic and international destinations:
Domestic Destinations
- Auckland
- Wellington
- Christchurch
- Queenstown
- Dunedin
- Nelson
- Napier
- Palmerston North
- Rotorua
- Hamilton
- Invercargill
- New Plymouth
- Tauranga
International Destinations
Australia
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Cairns, Perth
Pacific Islands
Nadi, Apia, Rarotonga, Papeete
Asia
Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Tokyo
North America
Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Chicago, Vancouver
Europe
London, Frankfurt, Paris
This global route network allows customers to conveniently travel to and from New Zealand while earning frequent flyer points and miles. Travelers have flexibility in choosing direct long haul flights or connecting service through Australia.

New Zealand Airlines Flights
As New Zealand’s national carrier, New Zealand Airlines offers the most flights to, from and within the country. Customers can choose from frequent daily scheduled service to domestic and international destinations.
Domestic flights within New Zealand operate several times per day to major hubs like Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin from origins across the country. Flights between the North Island and South Island are also plentiful.
Trans-Tasman flights to popular Australian gateway cities including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane depart multiple times per day from Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Christchurch to Sydney alone sees up to 10 flights daily.
Long haul international flights generally operate 1-2 times daily from Auckland to major cities across Asia, North America and Europe. Destinations like Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Shanghai and London have at least daily nonstop flights.
New Zealand Airlines leverages codeshare partnerships with airlines like Singapore Airlines and United Airlines to offer expanded flight options connecting through other countries. However, most international flights either originate or terminate in New Zealand.
Domestically, the airline utilizes a range of aircraft from small 50 seat turboprops to 180+ seat Airbus A320s. Long haul international flights employ widebody Boeing 777 and 787 planes. Premium cabin options are available on international and some domestic routes.
New Zealand Airlines Flight Schedule
As New Zealand’s largest airline, New Zealand Airlines offers frequent daily flights between destinations within New Zealand and to international cities.
Domestic schedule: Flights between major New Zealand cities like Auckland-Wellington, Auckland-Christchurch and Christchurch-Queenstown operate multiple times per day, typically on an hourly schedule during peak travel periods.
Trans-Tasman schedule: Major routes to Australian hubs like Auckland-Sydney see up to 10 flights per day. Smaller cities such as Wellington-Melbourne or Christchurch-Brisbane still maintain multiple daily flights.
Long haul international schedule: Flagship routes like Auckland-Los Angeles or Auckland-London operate at least once daily while higher demand cities such as Hong Kong see twice daily flights. Many routes include red-eye overnight flight options.
New Zealand Airlines schedules flights at major domestic airports to conveniently connect with its long haul international services to and from Auckland. This facilitates domestic and international connections within New Zealand.
The airline also times its trans-Tasman flights between New Zealand and Australia to optimize connections at major Australian gateways to intercontinental flights via partner airlines.
Overall, New Zealand Airlines’ extensive flight schedule provides travelers flexibility and choice when planning travel to, from or within New Zealand. The airline makes domestic and global connectivity convenient through its Auckland and Christchurch hubs.

New Zealand Airlines Online Flight Booking
Booking flights on New Zealand Airlines’ website and mobile app is a convenient self-service option for reserving domestic or international travel.
The online booking process involves:
- Using the homepage flight search tool by entering origin, destination and travel dates
- Selecting from available flight times and options like nonstop, connections, etc.
- Entering passenger details like name, contact info and frequent flyer number
- Choosing any ancillaries like checked bags, seat assignments, etc.
- Making payment using a credit/debit card or Airpoints Dollars
- Receiving a booking confirmation email with e-ticket
Online check-in is available starting 24 hours before departure where customers can access mobile boarding passes. Seat and meal selections can also be managed via online account.
The New Zealand Airlines app provides the added convenience of booking flights and managing travel on-the-go from mobile devices. Useful app features include real-time flight status alerts, check-in reminders and airport maps.
How to Manage New Zealand Airlines Bookings
New Zealand Airlines provides customers robust self-service options to manage existing bookings via online and mobile channels:
View / Modify Booking
Passengers can view booking details, make changes to flight times or routing, upgrade seating, and add ancillary purchases like checked bags and meals.
Cancel/Refund Booking
Flights eligible for refunds can be cancelled online subject to fare rules. Refunds are processed to original form of payment.
Add Flight Pass Credits
Travel bank credits can be used towards future bookings. Credits don’t expire, providing future travel flexibility.
Assign Seats
Specific seat assignments can be purchased or changed on both domestic and international flights. Exit row and extra legroom seats cost extra.
Pre-purchase Checked Bags
Save money by adding checked luggage in advance versus paying at the airport. Baggage policies and fees are presented during booking.
Access Boarding Passes
Electronic boarding passes are available via online check-in starting 24 hours pre-departure. Passes can also be accessed on airline’s mobile app.
Join/Manage Airpoints Loyalty Program
View miles earned, redeem Airpoints Dollars, and access elite membership benefits and tier status.

New Zealand Airlines Check-in Information
New Zealand Airlines offers customers a smooth, efficient check-in experience through online, mobile and airport processes.
Online/Mobile Check-in
Passengers can check-in on New Zealand Airlines’ website or mobile app starting 24 hours pre-departure. Boarding passes are issued digitally for display on mobile devices or printing.
Airport Check-in
Check-in counters at the airport open 3 hours prior to departure for international flights and 2 hours prior for domestic flights. Economy passengers can use self-service kiosks to print boarding passes and bag tags.
Baggage Drop Off
Checked bags must be dropped off at designated counters or via automated bag drops between 45-60 minutes before departure, depending on airport.
Boarding Gates
Gates close 20 minutes before scheduled departure time. Passengers should arrive at the departure gate at least 30 minutes prior to ensure enough time for gate check-in.
Preferred Check-in Options
Business Premier and Airpoints Elite flyers have access to priority check-in areas separate from main passenger queues, providing expedited service.
Following the check-in guidelines provided allows travelers to maintain a seamless airport experience when flying New Zealand Airlines.

New Zealand Airlines Policies
When booking and managing travel, New Zealand Airlines passengers should understand key airline policies regarding:
Tickets – Tickets are non-transferable. Name changes are permitted for a fee subject to fare rules.
Baggage – Carry-on and checked bag dimensions, weight and quantity limits apply. Excess and oversized bags incur fees.
Seat Selection – Preferred seats can be purchased as an ancillary or are free for premium cabins and elite members.
Cancellations & Changes – Voluntary changes incur fees and fare differences. Involuntary cancellations receive future travel credit.
Refunds – Refund eligibility and timeline depend on original fare rules and restrictions. Refunds are to original form of payment.
Unaccompanied Minors – Children between 5-11 traveling alone are considered unaccompanied minors requiring drop off and pick up by an adult guardian at the airport. Fee applies.
Pregnancy – For expectant mothers beyond 36 weeks gestation, a medical certificate must be presented at check-in and in-flight.
Special Assistance – Passengers requiring wheelchair or other special assistance should request this through booking. Airport staff will facilitate.
The Airlines aims to provide exceptional service, but passengers should understand policies to avoid issues when booking, traveling or requesting post-purchase changes.
New Zealand Airlines Booking and Reservation Policy
New Zealand Airlines booking and reservation policies help ensure smooth processing for passengers:
- Bookings can be made online, through the contact center or with a travel agent.
- Airfares and schedules are subject to availability. Seats on sold out flights cannot be guaranteed.
- Ancillaries like checked baggage and meals must be purchased in advance for best pricing.
- Name changes on tickets are allowed for a fee based on original fare rules.
- Tickets are non-transferable to other travelers.
- Payment at booking includes airfare, taxes/fees and any ancillaries or upgrades.
- Airpoints elite members and premium cabin customers enjoy priority access to preferred seating at no charge.
- Travelers are responsible for ensuring passport, visa and other travel documentation are valid for their itinerary.
Adhering to New Zealand Airlines booking policies helps travelers avoid unnecessary change fees or denied boarding situations. Knowing the policies provides peace of mind.
New Zealand Airlines Cancellation Policy
New Zealand Airlines’ cancellation policy:
- Tickets are refundable if cancelled before departure subject to fare rules.
- Refund eligibility and fees vary based on the fare class purchased. Basic fares have tighter restrictions.
- Refunds are issued to original form of payment, typically within 7 business days.
- Voluntarily canceled refundable tickets incur a cancellation fee plus any fare difference from the time of purchase.
- Involuntarily cancelled or significantly delayed tickets are converted to an electronic travel bank credit valid for 1 year. This credit can be applied to future bookings. No change fees apply.
- Tickets are transferable to other travelers for a name change fee if within fare guidelines.
- Partial ticket usage forfeits remaining value. Refunds are only issued for the unused flown segments.
- Failure to show up for a flight or canceling after scheduled departure results in forfeiture of ticket value.
Understanding the New Zealand Airlines cancellation policy allows travelers to make informed booking decisions and manage risks.
New Zealand Airlines Refund Policy
New Zealand Airlines offers fair, flexible refund policies for passengers needing to cancel flights:
- Refund eligibility is based on the original fare class purchased and its restrictions.
- Refunds are processed to the original form of payment, typically within 7 business days.
- For voluntary cancellations of refundable fares, any fare difference from time of purchase is not refunded.
- Basic, non-refundable fares are converted to a travel bank credit valid for 1 year from booking date.
- Involuntary cancellations receive a 1-year credit regardless of original fare rules.
- Name changes on refundable tickets incur a fee; changes to non-refundable tickets are not permitted.
- Partially used tickets receive a prorated refund of the unused flown segments.
- Refunds are permitted for optional ancillary purchases like checked bags if canceled in advance.
- Failure to cancel before scheduled departure results in forfeiture of all ticket value.
The Airline provides multiple options for refunds or credits to retain customer goodwill.
New Zealand Airlines Baggage Policy
When flying New Zealand Airlines, understanding the baggage policy helps passengers avoid fees:
Carry-On Bags
- Maximum size limits: 21 x 40 x 55 cm or 9 x 14 x 22 inches
- Maximum weight: 7 kg on small aircraft, otherwise no limit
- 1 carry-on and 1 personal item (purse, laptop bag, etc) permitted per passenger
Checked Bags
- Fee applies for checking bags based on route and fare purchased
- Economy class travelers typically get 1 or 2 free checked bags on international itineraries
- Maximum weight per checked bag: 23 kg or 50 lbs
- Oversized and overweight bags incur additional fees
Excess Baggage
- Additional bags beyond free allowance incur per bag fees each way
- Fees are cheaper when pre-purchased online versus at airport
Sporting Equipment
- Bicycles, golf clubs, surfboards, etc welcomed subject to oversize/overweight fees
Knowing what’s permitted in carry-ons versus checked luggage helps New Zealand Airlines passengers avoid bag issues at the airport.
New Zealand Airlines Baggage Allowance
When planning travel, New Zealand Airlines customers should understand their free checked baggage allowance to avoid excess luggage fees:
Domestic Flights
- Economy class passengers get 1 free checked bag up to 23 kg / 50 lbs
- Koru and Airpoints Elite members get 2 free checked bags
Short Haul International Flights (Pacific Islands, Australia)
- Economy passengers get 1 or 2 free checked bags depending on destination
- Business Premier members get 2 or 3 free checked bags
Long Haul International Flights (Asia, Europe, North America)
- Economy gets 2 free checked bags up to 23 kg / 50 lbs each
- Business Premier gets 3 free 32 kg bags; Koru and Elite get 2 free 32 kg bags
Across cabins and fare types, additional bags or weight incur fees. Pre-paying for bags online yields lower cost versus airport payment. Understanding the applicable baggage allowance makes packing for trips easy.
New Zealand Airlines Pet Policy
New Zealand Airlines offers a generous pet policy for domestic and international travel:
In Cabin
- Maximum of 1 pet carrier per passenger
- Carrier counts as carry-on item
- Maximum 8 kg pet and carrier combined weight
Checked as Cargo
- Pets allowed in hold on domestic, Pacific Island and Australian flights
- Not permitted in hold on long haul international flights
Fees
- NZD $100-$200 per carrier / pet each way for in cabin
- NZD $105-$360
New Zealand Airlines Facilities
New Zealand Airlines invests in amenities and services to enhance the overall travel experience:
Lounges – Business Premier passengers, Koru members and Airpoints Elite flyers enjoy access to premium airport lounges in New Zealand and around the world. Lounges feature free food and beverages, comfy seating, WiFi and more.
In-flight Entertainment – Complimentary movies, TV shows, music, games and more are available via personal seatback screens and devices in every class.
Power Outlets – Convenient power outlets are accessible from every seat to charge devices inflight.
WiFi – New Zealand Airlines offers in-flight WiFi connectivity on most long haul international flights for a fee, allowing access to internet, email and chatting apps.
Children’s Activity Kits – Kids receive coloring books, puzzles and activity packs to stay entertained. Food catering includes child-friendly meals.
Skycouch – Unique economy sleeper rows allow families and couples to convert seats to a flat, couch-like surface for napping and relaxation.
Whether in the airport lounge or onboard, New Zealand Airlines aims to provide thoughtful amenities that enhance the journey.
New Zealand Airlines In-Flight Food & Drinks

New Zealand Airlines offers complimentary meals, snacks and beverages appropriate for the time of day on all international flights:
Breakfast – Fresh pastries, fruit, cereals, yogurt along with coffee, tea, juices and sparkling wine.
Lunch & Dinner – Multi-course premium meals like seared salmon or roasted chicken breast accompanied by New Zealand wine. Special meal options are available.
Mid-Flight Snacks – Complimentary sandwiches, chips, chocolate and wine depending on cabin and flight duration.
Refreshments – Unlimited soft drinks, coffee, tea, juices, water and beer/wine depending on cabin. Self-serve stations available in Economy.
Kid’s Meals – Children-friendly options like chicken tenders, mac and cheese, fruit and dessert. Activity packs with games keep kids engaged.
The airline sources as many ingredients as possible from New Zealand providers. Meals reflect the country’s fresh, natural cuisine. The goal is to make dining a memorable part of the journey.
New Zealand Airlines Deals & Promotions
New Zealand Airlines runs regular promotions to provide value across cabins:
Seat Sales – Periodic discounts on Economy and Business Premier fares to popular destinations. Signing up for email alerts provides early access.
Companion Fares – “Bring a buddy” discounts allow 2 travelers to fly for price of 1 ticket plus minimal fees.
Airpoints Bonus Miles – Earn extra frequent flyer miles on flight bookings or by shopping with airline partners. Bonus points promotions occur frequently.
Kids Fly Free – Children under 12 fly free when accompanying an adult fare-paying passenger on domestic flights.
Birthday Discounts – Receive promo codes for flight discounts during member birth month when subscribed to emails.
Group Deals – Savings for group travel bookings of 10+ passengers on corporate, leisure, sports, school groups and more.
Student Flights – Full-time students under 25 qualify for discounted Economy and Business Premier fares to global destinations.
Signing up for New Zealand Airlines’ email newsletter ensures travelers don’t miss out on the many special offers and insider deals.
New Zealand Airlines Offers & Discounts
Beyond regular sales and promotions, New Zealand Airlines provides passengers with multiple ways to save:
- Green Discounts – Save 5% off Economy and Business Premier fares when opting out of complimentary inflight catering.
- Standby Upgrades – Airpoints Elite members can sign up for discounted same-day upgrade bids to Business Premier.
- Saver Fares – Deeply discounted advance purchase Economy fares come with restrictions but offer big savings.
- Student Discounts – Students under 25 receive discounted international airfares simply by presenting a valid student ID.
- Children Discounts – Kids under 12 fly free domestically with a paying adult. International fares for kids are reduced.
- Senior Savings – Travelers 65+ enjoy reduced fares year-round to both domestic and international destinations.
- Web Exclusives – Special online-only sales offer deep discounts on flights and vacation packages booked directly on the website.
Leveraging these money-saving deals makes flying with New Zealand Airlines very attractive for all types of travelers seeking value and flexibility.
New Zealand Airlines Passengers Experience
New Zealand Airlines focuses on delivering a premier end-to-end travel experience defined by:
Friendly Service – Renowned Kiwi hospitality shines through in thoughtful crew interactions.
Comfortable Cabins – Ergonomic seating, ample legroom and cushy headrests aim to help travelers arrive refreshed.
Complimentary Dining – Locally-inspired cuisine makes mealtime a highlight. Special meals accommodate dietary needs.
Entertainment – An extensive selection of movies, TV, music and games entertains all passengers.
Seamless Connectivity – Stay connected inflight through WiFi, power outlets and Bluetooth connectivity.
Cleanliness – Hospital-grade disinfectants and HEPA filters ensure cabin air quality and cleanliness.
Regional Charm – From boarding music to onboard menus, New Zealand culture is interwoven throughout.
Value Fares – Regular sales and special discounts make New Zealand Airlines very attractively priced.
These touches exemplify New Zealand Airlines’ dedication to providing an enjoyable, caring and culturally-enriching journey.
How to Book Flights on New Zealand Airlines
Booking flights on New Zealand Airlines is simple through online, mobile and phone channels:
Online
- Use website search to enter origin, destination and dates
- Select desired outbound and return flights
- Enter passenger details and member numbers
- Choose seat assignments, baggage, meals
- Provide payment information to complete booking
Mobile App
- Download app and set up account
- Use flight search option to find and select flights
- Enter details on easy booking form
- Manage add-ons like bags, seats, amenities
- Get boarding passes and alerts through app
Phone
- Call reservations center and speak to an agent
- Provide desired itinerary and passenger details
- Agent will search schedules and pricing
- Add ancillaries as prompted by the agent
- Process payment to complete reservation
Whichever option you choose, the New Zealand Airlines booking process is quick, convenient and intuitive.
Why Choose New Zealand Airlines?
There are many great reasons to choose New Zealand Airlines for your next trip:
- Extensive Network – More nonstop flights to New Zealand and within the region than any airline.
- Kiwi Hospitality – Renowned friendly service on the ground and in the skies.
- Natural Beauty – Experience New Zealand’s majestic landscapes in style and comfort.
- Modern Fleet – Young, technologically advanced aircraft with leading amenities.
- Alliance Partners – OneWorld partnerships expand the airline’s reach globally.
- Frequent Flyer Program – Generous Airpoints loyalty rewards frequent fliers.
- Value Fares – Regular fare sales offer very competitively priced tickets.
- Seamless Travel – Robust online, app and airport services aim to deliver a smooth journey.
For an authentic, relaxing and caring travel experience defined by Kiwi hospitality, New Zealand Airlines stands out from competitors as the ideal choice.
Conclusion
With extensive domestic coverage of New Zealand and prime international gateways across Australia, Asia, Europe and North America, New Zealand Airlines provides Kiwi travelers seamless connectivity both close to home and far abroad. The airline’s young, technologically equipped fleet combined with renowned service makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. Regular promotions across cabins ensures New Zealand Airlines is competitively priced versus other carriers. Overall, New Zealand Airlines represents the best of New Zealand and remains a top choice for an enriching travel experience.
