Air New Zealand launches new route and grows current routes

Air New Zealand will introduce a new nonstop seasonal route linking Queenstown (ZQN/NZQN) and Brisbane (BNE/YBBN) from mid 2026. 

AIR NEW ZEALAND BOEING 787-9 ZK-NZE (MSN 34334)

Air New Zealand will begin operating the Queenstown to Brisbane route on the 22nd of June 2026, with flights running three times a week until the 23rd of October 2026. The schedule targets travellers looking for mid-year holidays or early spring escapes, supporting seasonal peaks in both regions.

Air New Zealand will also expand its capacity across major Trans-Tasman routes. The airline will add 63,000 extra seats next year by upgrading aircraft and increasing frequencies to meet rising demand from both leisure and business travelers. 

Brisbane Airport (BNE/YBBN) confirmed that New Zealand remains its leading international two-way market, reinforcing importance of this expansion. The added capacity will support growing travel flows between Brisbane and key New Zealand gateways, including Auckland (AKL/NZAA), Christchurch (CHC/NZCH), and Wellington (WLG/NZWLN).

Air New Zealand will grow Brisbane- Auckland capacity by 12 percent from March to October 2026. The Brisbane-- Christchurch and Brisbane-Wellington routes will each see a 7 percent increase reflecting stable and sustained demand.