Christchurch Airport Boosts Domestic and International Services to Meet Strong Summer Holiday Travel Demand

Published on December 15, 2025

Christchurch Airport is preparing for one of its most dynamic summer travel periods in recent years, as passenger demand surges and flight schedules expand ahead of the peak holiday rush. With Christmas and New Year travel just around the corner, the airport is positioning itself to handle significantly higher volumes while maintaining a smooth and welcoming experience for travellers arriving from across New Zealand and around the world.

From late November through to the end of March, the airport’s overall seat capacity will rise by an impressive 375,000 seats, representing an 11 percent increase compared with the same period last year. This growth reflects strong confidence in travel demand and a robust recovery across both domestic and international markets. Domestic services account for the largest share of the expansion, adding 236,000 seats, while international routes contribute a further 139,000 seats, marking a notable 15 percent rise in overseas capacity.

The busiest stretch of the season is expected to fall in the days leading up to Christmas, when thousands of people travel to reunite with family, enjoy summer holidays, or head overseas for festive escapes. Between 19 and 24 December alone, an additional 12,000 seats will be available, delivering an eight percent increase on last year’s peak period and easing pressure during the most popular travel window.

Friday 19 December is shaping up to be the single busiest day of the season, with more than 25,600 passengers forecast to pass through the terminal. This figure surpasses last year’s record by nearly 3,800 travellers, highlighting just how strong demand has become. Of these passengers, around 17,900 will be travelling on regional and domestic services, while approximately 7,700 will be heading overseas or arriving from international destinations.

Daily flight patterns on peak days reveal clear movement trends. Domestic and regional flights are expected to surge twice during the day, first around midday between 12pm and 1pm, and again in the early evening between 6pm and 7pm. International services, meanwhile, will be busiest during the early afternoon, with 2pm identified as the peak hour for overseas departures and arrivals. Between 10am and 2pm, the terminal will welcome a steady flow of long-haul and trans-Tasman arrivals, contributing to the airport’s most active window of the day.

In terms of where travellers are heading, domestic journeys dominate the festive period as people criss-cross the country to be home for Christmas. To support this, the airport has expanded its domestic programme, offering more choice and flexibility for travellers connecting with loved ones. At the same time, international leisure travel is gaining momentum, with Adelaide emerging as a popular choice for those seeking a Christmas getaway. Tropical and beach destinations are also in high demand, including Cairns, the Gold Coast and Fiji, while improved connections are opening up access to Southeast Asia’s most sought-after holiday spots such as Vietnam, Phuket, the Philippines and Bali.

Behind the scenes, extensive planning and coordination are underway to keep operations running smoothly during the busiest days. A wide range of teams will be on duty across the airport, working together to support safe, efficient and enjoyable journeys. Around 20 customer service staff will be available throughout the terminal to assist passengers, while 13 eateries will be open, offering festive menus and refreshments for travellers on the move.

Ground transport and parking operations are also scaling up for the rush, with more than 2,200 car parks in use, an estimated 6,650 passenger pick-ups and drop-offs, and around 3,100 taxis and rideshare vehicles expected to pass through service lanes. Airside activity will be equally intense, with approximately 240 landings and take-offs scheduled on peak days and around 9,000 bags to be processed through baggage systems.

Adding a festive touch to the busy environment, the terminal will be decorated with six Christmas trees, including one towering eight-metre centrepiece, while working dogs continue to play a vital role in maintaining border security. Seasonal cheer will also be on hand, with Santa and helpers making appearances to spread smiles and holiday spirit.

With increased capacity, well-planned schedules and dedicated teams across every part of the operation, Christchurch Airport is ready to deliver a seamless summer travel experience, helping passengers begin their holidays on a positive and memorable note.