Australia and New Zealand Strengthen Tourism Links as Qantas Expands International Routes Through Perth and the Gold Coast

Published on December 8, 2025

A significant boost to regional and long-haul travel has been recorded as Qantas, Perth, Johannesburg, and Auckland become newly connected through strategic international routes designed to enhance mobility across Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand. This development has been positioned as part of a broader effort to reinforce Western Australia’s status as an emerging global aviation gateway while supporting tourism, trade, and economic activity across multiple continents. Through a combination of upgraded airport infrastructure, increased border processing capability, and a renewed focus on international accessibility, the launch of these services has been welcomed as a major milestone for travelers seeking more direct and efficient long-haul options. With strong interest already indicated in forward bookings and growing demand observed among leisure and business passengers alike, these routes have been framed as important avenues for fostering cultural connections, creating employment, and expanding global market reach. As these flights commence regular service, travelers are being offered new opportunities to explore diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique heritage experiences in three countries linked by aviation, commerce, and shared travel ambitions.

Qantas Expands Its Western Hub Through Two New International Routes

The beginning of two major international routes from Perth has been marked as a turning point in Qantas’ long-term strategy to expand its western hub. Nonstop flights from Perth to Johannesburg and Perth to Auckland have been formally commenced, enabling direct travel between Western Australia and two significant global destinations.

Flight QF65 was operated as the inaugural service to Johannesburg, becoming the first Qantas route connecting Western Australia directly to South Africa. Earlier the same day, QF112 arrived from Auckland, establishing the first nonstop Qantas link between Western Australia and New Zealand. These services together provide more than 150,000 international seats each year, enhancing travel opportunities and supporting various aviation-related jobs throughout Western Australia.

The completion of the return flight from Perth to Auckland on 8 December marked the beginning of consistent, two-way operations on both routes.

Government Funding and Airport Infrastructure Improvements

The introduction of these routes has been made possible by specific federal funding directed toward the Australian Border Force and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. With this support, biosecurity operations and border services at Perth Airport have been strengthened.

Perth Airport utilized the investment to increase staffing, modernize equipment, and improve processing facilities. These initiatives have enhanced the airport’s ability to manage a larger volume of international flights, which is especially critical for long-haul operations.

Passenger Demand, Network Advantages, and Global Connectivity

Positive customer response has been recorded for both new routes, according to Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace. High load factors were observed on the inaugural Johannesburg flight, and forward bookings indicate continued interest from travelers wishing to fly directly between Western Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.

The Perth–Johannesburg route also provides convenient onward connections to Cape Town and other African destinations through Qantas’ partnership with Airlink. Meanwhile, the Perth–Auckland service enhances connectivity for travelers heading toward North America, with smooth links to New York via Auckland.

Through these additions, Perth is being positioned as a competitive international gateway, offering enhanced choice and operational flexibility for travelers across Australia.

Tourism, Economic Gains, and Regional Benefits

Tourism Minister Don Farrell emphasized that increased international flight capacity into Perth delivers value far beyond the aviation sector. New flights introduce more visitors, support hospitality and tour operations, and create new possibilities for Australian exporters.

Tourism New Zealand noted that the Perth–Auckland route further strengthens ties between Australia and New Zealand. A 17 percent rise has been recorded in Australian holiday arrivals to New Zealand, and the direct connection provides added convenience for more than 75,000 New Zealand citizens living in Western Australia.

Perth Airport also highlighted that new international routes contribute to job creation, tourism growth, and improved links to global economic markets.

Route Information and Aircraft Details

Johannesburg: South Africa’s Gold Capital

Johannesburg has been widely regarded as South Africa’s most energetic metropolis and a central reflection of the nation’s growth, resilience, and heritage. Although often bypassed by international travelers, the city offers remarkable cultural engagement, a flourishing creative scene, and convenient access to historical landmarks and wildlife reserves.

The multicultural identity of Johannesburg is expressed through its language diversity, neighborhood character, and active street culture. With nearly ten million trees, it has also earned recognition as the world’s largest man-made urban forest.

Navigating Johannesburg: Transport, Safety, and Visitor Experience

Visitors arriving at OR Tambo International Airport are provided with access to tourist services, car rentals, and licensed transport options. The Gautrain offers a reliable and rapid link to major business districts, while the Rea Vaya BRT system and local buses complement citywide travel. Driving remains the most practical option for reaching dispersed attractions.

Johannesburg is considered safe for travelers adhering to standard precautions. Regenerated districts such as Maboneng and northern suburbs are regarded as welcoming for visitors, though awareness of personal belongings is recommended.

Highlights for a One-Day Exploration

Experiences in Johannesburg often begin in the central districts. Maboneng’s Market on Main offers local food and crafts, while Collector’s Treasury stands as one of Africa’s largest second-hand bookshops. Walking tours provide context on city regeneration, and dedicated tours of Johannesburg and Soweto offer insights into political history and community life.

Cultural attractions such as MuseuMAfricA, the Museum of African Design, the Apartheid Museum, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial present essential narratives for visitors seeking deeper understanding.

Evening Culture and Neighborhoods

Nightlife in Johannesburg features Indian street food in Fordsburg, rooftop venues in Maboneng and Braamfontein, and a strong jazz heritage reflected in venues such as The Orbit and the Marabi Club. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels in Sandton to boutique guesthouses in Melville and Parkhurst.

Nearby Getaways and Nature Experiences

Popular escapes include the Magaliesberg Mountains, the Cradle of Humankind, and wildlife reserves such as Pilanesberg and Madikwe, which offer accessible safari experiences without malaria risk.

Qantas Restores International Travel from the Gold Coast

From 16 June 2026, Qantas will reintroduce international flights from the Gold Coast to Auckland. Operated three times weekly on a Boeing 737, this service provides more than 52,000 seats annually and strengthens trans-Tasman connectivity. The route supports tourism between Queensland and New Zealand while aligning with broader Qantas network upgrades, including expanded Pacific connections and a redesigned Auckland lounge.