Cathay Pacific Resumes Direct Flights to Christchurch with Increased Capacity Strengthening South Island’s Tourism and Trade Connections for the Summer Season

Published on December 2, 2024

Cathay Pacific’s Return to Christchurch

On December 2, 2024, Cathay Pacific resumed its direct flights to Christchurch Airport, just in time for the summer season. This marked the airline’s re-entry into the South Island, reflecting a substantial 88% increase in seat capacity compared to the previous season. The airline’s commitment to expanding its services signals strong confidence in the South Island’s growing tourism, trade, and economy, both locally and internationally.

Boosting Connectivity and Tourism in New Zealand

The return of Cathay Pacific not only offers additional flights but also streamlines the travel process for visitors from North Asia and Hong Kong. The direct route eliminates the need for domestic travel from Auckland, offering travelers a convenient, seamless experience. The airline’s service will facilitate more access to Christchurch from over 80 destinations worldwide, thanks to its extensive global network through its Hong Kong hub.

This enhanced connectivity is expected to significantly boost tourism in the South Island. The route is expected to have a major impact on the flow of international travelers, who can now travel more directly, efficiently, and affordably. By reducing the complexity of connecting flights, the airline’s expanded capacity is anticipated to result in increased international arrivals, especially from key Asian markets.

Impact on South Island’s Economy

In addition to boosting tourism, Cathay Pacific’s expanded service has important implications for the South Island’s trade and economic growth. The airline’s involvement in transporting goods—such as high-demand exports like cherries, seafood, and meat—is expected to add significant value to local industries. Over the summer season, it is projected that around $100 million worth of goods will be transported through Christchurch, ensuring the region’s continued integration into international markets. The capacity for efficient freight handling, combined with increased passenger numbers, will directly benefit exporters, strengthening the overall economy.

For Kiwi businesses, Cathay Pacific’s enhanced connectivity with Europe and Asia offers an easier route for accessing global markets. The airline’s role in transporting goods, especially perishable items like cherries, which have seen a doubling of exports since 2020, provides reliable cargo services crucial for maintaining product quality and meeting demand. This, in turn, directly impacts the profitability and growth of South Island exporters.

Economic and Tourism Benefits for New Zealand

The economic benefits of Cathay Pacific’s service expansion extend far beyond Christchurch. The increased capacity to and from the South Island is expected to contribute to New Zealand’s broader tourism sector. According to estimates, every international passenger traveling to the South Island results in an average of 12 nights of accommodation across New Zealand, leading to a tangible financial boost for the tourism industry. This direct service not only opens up Christchurch as a prime tourist destination but also encourages spending in other regions across the country, particularly in the accommodation and hospitality sectors.

Airline’s Expanded Seasonal Service

For the upcoming summer season, Cathay Pacific will operate its Airbus A350-1000 for four flights a week from Christchurch to Hong Kong until February 2025. Following this, an Airbus A350-900 will take over the route, offering three flights per week until the end of the season. This change will enable the airline to accommodate increased demand and continue its high-frequency operations, which are pivotal for the region’s growth. The flights offer an eleven-hour journey, connecting Christchurch with one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, ensuring that both leisure and business travelers will benefit from reliable and accessible international air travel.

A Key Development for Global Tourism and Trade

Cathay Pacific’s return to Christchurch is a vital development for both tourism and trade in the South Island. The airline’s expanded service capacity, combined with its direct connection to Hong Kong and beyond, is expected to fuel growth in New Zealand’s tourism sector and provide significant logistical advantages to exporters. With the promise of increased international travelers, growing tourism infrastructure, and a stronger economy, the return of Cathay Pacific to Christchurch sets a positive trajectory for the region’s future.

• Cathay Pacific’s return to Christchurch is expected to contribute over $100 million in freight to South Island’s economy.
• Increased international seat capacity and direct flight services are anticipated to boost tourism in New Zealand.