Virgin Australia And Air New Zealand Offer Greater Connectivity With New Trans-Tasman Codeshare Agreement

Published on December 11, 2024

Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand’s renewed partnership offers expanded flight options across the Tasman, with direct bookings to Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch starting 9 Dec 2024.

The long-awaited partnership between Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand has officially taken off, offering an enhanced travel experience for Virgin Australia passengers flying across the Tasman Sea. This renewed collaboration provides seamless travel options, allowing passengers to book Virgin Australia flights operated by Air New Zealand under a VA flight number to popular destinations such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. These services will be available starting 9 December 2024.

In addition to its current routes to Queenstown, Virgin Australia will now offer even more direct connections to New Zealand’s key cities, strengthening its trans-Tasman network.

Kathryn O’Brien, General Manager for Air New Zealand in Australia, highlighted the significance of this partnership, emphasizing the convenience it brings to travelers on both sides of the Tasman. “This partnership makes it easier than ever for Australians and New Zealanders living in Australia to make the short journey across the ditch,” O’Brien said. “We’re thrilled to welcome Virgin Australia customers aboard and showcase our renowned Kiwi hospitality, delivering a true taste of Aotearoa at 30,000 feet.”

With around 300 flights per week between Australia and New Zealand, Virgin Australia passengers and Velocity Frequent Flyer members can enjoy a host of benefits, including rewards and exclusive offers on flights operated by Air New Zealand.

Alistair Hartley, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at Virgin Australia, expressed excitement about the extended reach this partnership brings. “This collaboration not only opens up greater access to New Zealand destinations for our customers, but it also reinforces our commitment to providing more options and seamless experiences for those traveling between Australia and New Zealand.”

This revived alliance between the two carriers marks a new chapter in trans-Tasman travel, with customers now able to easily access an expanded range of flight options, all while enjoying the quality service both airlines are known for.