Air New Zealand Launches New Direct Service Between Christchurch and Rarotonga
- Joe Breitfeller
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Air New Zealand has announced the launch of new direct service between Christchurch and Rarotonga starting next winter. From May through October 2026, the new seasonal route will operate up to three times weekly.
On Monday (November 3, 2025), Air New Zealand announced the launch of new direct service between Christchurch and Rarotonga for winter 2026. The new seasonal route will operate up to three times weekly from May through October 2026. Flights will depart Christchurch at 15:40 on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and return from Rarotonga at 23:30 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This route launch underscores Air New Zealand’s commitment to growing international connectivity from Christchurch, giving South Islanders even more reasons to head straight for their holiday.
In Monday’s announcement, Air New Zealand’s CEO, Nikhil Ravishankar, said,
“We’ve seen strong appetite for travel to Rarotonga from our Christchurch customers, so this is fantastic news for the South Island. Launching this direct service ahead of the July school holidays makes it even easier for families to trade frosty mornings for tropical sunshine. Christchurch continues to strengthen its position as a key international gateway, and we're thrilled to be part of that growth story. Every new route we launch from the South Island opens up more opportunities for our customers and connects our communities to the world.”
Also commenting on the new route launch, Christchurch Airport’s CEO, Justin Watson, said,
“South Islanders love escaping to Rarotonga, and this new direct flight makes that even easier. It's another great step in growing international options for our airport, helping more people reach their favourite destinations seamlessly.”
Flights between Christchurch and Rarotonga will be available for booking from November 5, 2025.
Source: Air New Zealand
