As we look ahead to the peak 2025/26 summer season, we’re thrilled to share some fresh announcements that will open up even more travel opportunities for Canterbury and the South Island.

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s coming up, and a reminder of the fantastic options already good to go.

Singapore Airlines expanding again
Singapore Airlines will increase their year-round A350 service to Singapore to 11 flights per week over the summer season. With 46 supplementary services confirmed across the schedule, this is a fantastic uplift that supports long-haul travel and global connectivity.

The new flights arrive into Christchurch at 11:40pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, and depart for Singapore at 1:10am the following morning – offering seamless onward connections through Changi across Asia and beyond.

China Southern Airlines boosts capacity by 26%
A decade on from first touching down in Christchurch, China Southern Airlines is still accelerating its service. The popular Guangzhou–Christchurch flight resumes 1 November with five flights per week, ramping up to daily service from 18 December - 3 March 2026.

As well as providing a crucial bridge for families and tourists over summer and the Chinese New Year, the service whisks premium export goods directly to markets in Asia and beyond.

Qantas adds 30,000+ seats across the Tasman
From 15 December to 26 January, Qantas will boost flights to Australia, including:

• Up to three daily flights to Sydney, with Sydney to Christchurch up to seven additional flights per week, 47 per cent increase.
• Double daily services to Brisbane and Melbourne, with Melbourne to Christchurch up to three additional flights per week, 26 per cent increase.  

This schedule brings significant additional capacity to popular trans-Tasman routes during the busiest travel months, offering you greater flexibility and choice.

Jet services return to Hamilton
Air New Zealand is reintroducing A320 jet services between Christchurch and Hamilton from 18 September 2025, operating five times weekly year-round. Combined with their existing ATR flights, this upgrade adds 25,000 seats per year and strengthens one of the fastest-growing regional routes in the country.

Adelaide – here we come!

Air New Zealand is bringing back direct flights between Christchurch and Adelaide! Starting 27 October 2025, you’ll be able to fly nonstop between the two cities twice a week, every Monday and Friday, right through the summer season until 27 March 2026.

This is great news for anyone keen to explore the vibrant food, wine, and culture of South Australia – or reconnect with friends and family across the ditch. With flights departing in the evening from Christchurch and returning midday from Adelaide, it’s easy to make the most of your time on either side.

This seasonal service adds over 15,000 seats to our international network, and strengthens the 50-year sister city relationship between Christchurch and Adelaide. Fares start from just $345 one-way, so if you’ve been dreaming of an Aussie getaway, now’s the perfect time to start planning.

Confirmed schedule:

• Christchurch to Adelaide: Departs 10:20am, arrives 11:30am – Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
• Adelaide to Christchurch: Departs 12:20pm, arrives 7:30pm – Wednesday, Friday, Sunday

Thinking of a winter escape?
If the winter chill is already wearing thin, we’ve got some sunny options ready to go:

• Jetstar’s new direct service to Cairns operates up to three times per week – perfect for reef adventures and tropical warmth.
• Fiji Airways flies to Nadi, Fiji up to four times weekly, connecting you to white sand beaches and winter sun.
• Or take off for a classic coastal break on the Gold Coast with flights from both Jetstar and Air New Zealand.

These announcements build on the strong foundation of existing airline routes and we’re proud of that network that delivers more choice, better connectivity, and exciting destinations for all travellers. Whether you're planning your next trip or just dreaming of where to go next, your journey starts here.