A new aviation partnership is set to transform travel across regional New Zealand. Air New Zealand and Air Chathams have announced a strategic collaboration that will connect Whakatāne and Auckland through a streamlined interline agreement starting December 2025. This initiative will allow passengers to book a single ticket for journeys that involve both airlines, simplifying travel, improving accessibility, and supporting the growth of regional tourism.
The partnership comes as part of a broader effort to enhance regional connectivity and strengthen the national tourism network. By linking Air Chathams’ Whakatāne-Auckland service with Air New Zealand’s extensive domestic routes, the collaboration will help travelers explore more destinations across New Zealand with ease. For passengers, this means smoother journeys, easier baggage transfers, and more efficient connections through Auckland, one of the country’s busiest air hubs.
Seamless Travel Experience for Passengers
The interline agreement represents a significant improvement in customer convenience. Travelers flying from Whakatāne to other parts of the country can now check in their baggage once, enjoy a unified booking process, and access Air New Zealand’s full network of destinations.
For example, a traveler flying from Whakatāne to Christchurch or Wellington will be able to complete their journey using one ticket, without needing to rebook or recheck their luggage during transfer in Auckland. This seamless integration not only saves time but also enhances the overall passenger experience — a vital factor in today’s competitive aviation landscape.
The move is expected to attract both local residents and international tourists, particularly those seeking to explore New Zealand’s less-traveled regions. By reducing barriers to access, Whakatāne and surrounding areas are positioned to benefit from increased visitor numbers and tourism spending.
A Boost for Regional Economies
Associate Transport Minister James Meager praised the partnership, describing it as a “win for regional New Zealand.” He emphasized that improved air connectivity is essential for economic development, particularly in tourism-dependent regions like Whakatāne. “These kinds of partnerships ensure that smaller communities remain connected, supporting local businesses, tourism operators, and families,” Meager said.
The agreement aligns with the New Zealand government’s regional growth agenda, which prioritizes infrastructure and connectivity improvements to balance economic development between major cities and smaller towns. Tourism, in particular, is a key contributor to regional prosperity, and enhanced accessibility can have far-reaching benefits — from hospitality and retail growth to job creation.
Leadership Endorsements and Industry Response
Air New Zealand’s CEO Nikhil Ravishankar described the partnership as part of the airline’s mission to offer more flexibility and choice for customers. He noted that passengers can now book a single itinerary covering multiple destinations, such as traveling from Whakatāne to Kerikeri or Queenstown, using one booking and one baggage check-in.
For Air Chathams, the collaboration marks an exciting new chapter in its growth story. CEO Duane Emeny highlighted that working with Air New Zealand opens up access to new markets and visibility across international sales platforms. “This partnership gives Air Chathams greater reach and allows regional travelers to connect with the world through Auckland,” Emeny explained. He added that this is only the beginning, hinting at future collaborations that could connect more regional airports nationwide.
Local leaders have also expressed strong support. Whakatāne District Council CEO Steven Perdia emphasized that the partnership will make the town more accessible to tourists while providing locals with more travel options. “This agreement reflects years of effort to make Whakatāne a more connected and attractive destination for visitors,” Perdia said, noting that it fits within the council’s long-term vision for regional growth.
A Gateway to Greater Tourism Opportunities
The tourism potential of this partnership is substantial. With Air New Zealand marketing and selling Air Chathams’ Whakatāne-Auckland flights as part of its domestic network, tourists can now travel directly from cities like Dunedin or Queenstown to Whakatāne in a single booking.
Whakatāne, known for its coastal beauty, Māori culture, and proximity to White Island (Whakaari), is poised to benefit from increased visibility. The region offers an authentic slice of New Zealand, with attractions ranging from beaches and marine adventures to geothermal experiences and forest walks. Easier access through this new partnership could significantly boost visitor arrivals, supporting local accommodation providers, restaurants, and tour operators.
NZ Airports CEO Billie Moore applauded the collaboration, noting that it strengthens the backbone of New Zealand’s domestic aviation system. “Integrated ticketing and baggage handling are crucial for encouraging tourism and business travel across regions,” Moore stated. She expressed optimism that this partnership could serve as a model for future collaborations between major and regional carriers.
Expanding Regional Connectivity Beyond Whakatāne
While Whakatāne-Auckland is the first route to benefit, both airlines have signaled intentions to expand the interline model to other regional centers. By connecting smaller airports with major hubs, Air New Zealand and Air Chathams aim to create a more inclusive and resilient aviation network.
Such initiatives are vital for ensuring that regional New Zealand remains accessible, especially as travel demand continues to rebound post-pandemic. With more visitors seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, regions like Whakatāne, Gisborne, and the Chatham Islands could emerge as key destinations in the years ahead.
Future Outlook: A Model for Regional Growth
The partnership between Air New Zealand and Air Chathams is not just about flight connectivity — it represents a commitment to regional resilience and tourism development. The new system provides passengers with a unified travel experience while simultaneously stimulating local economies and strengthening national cohesion.
By simplifying the booking process, reducing travel friction, and expanding access to smaller communities, the partnership lays a foundation for sustained tourism growth in New Zealand.
As travelers look for new and meaningful destinations, Whakatāne’s increased accessibility could make it one of New Zealand’s standout regional attractions. Supported by the collaboration of two leading carriers, this initiative positions the region — and the country — for a stronger, more connected tourism future.
In Summary:
Air New Zealand and Air Chathams’ partnership marks a transformational step for regional tourism in New Zealand. By offering integrated ticketing, baggage handling, and streamlined connections between Whakatāne and Auckland, the airlines are ensuring that regional travel becomes easier, faster, and more enjoyable. This collaboration not only strengthens domestic tourism but also enhances New Zealand’s position as one of the world’s most accessible and traveler-friendly destinations.
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