Qantas has announced a significant expansion of its trans-Tasman flight schedule, with capacity between Australia and New Zealand set to increase by up to 20 per cent during the peak holiday season from December 2025 to January 2026. The move will add around 60,000 extra seats compared to the same period last year, offering customers more travel options and flexibility during the summer holidays.
The airline will introduce additional flights across several key routes, enhancing connectivity between major Australian cities and New Zealand destinations.
Summary of Additional Flights
| Route | Current Schedule | Seasonal Summer Change | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney – Auckland | 35 flights per week (Boeing 737 only) | Up to 6 additional flights per week | 16% |
| Sydney – Christchurch | 14 flights per week | Up to 7 additional flights per week | 47% |
| Sydney – Wellington | 14 flights per week | Up to 5 additional flights per week | 31% |
| Melbourne – Auckland | 28 flights per week | Up to 7 additional flights per week | 23% |
| Melbourne – Christchurch | 11 flights per week | Up to 3 additional flights per week | 26% |
| Melbourne – Queenstown | 4 flights per week | Up to 2 additional flights per week | 50% |
| Brisbane – Queenstown | 4 flights per week | Up to 3 additional flights per week | 75% |
This seasonal increase will bring Qantas’ total trans-Tasman capacity to over 3.3 million seats between January 2025 and January 2026, supporting tourism and economic ties between the two countries.
Additionally, Qantas will deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on the Auckland–Brisbane route from August 2025. The aircraft will operate three times weekly initially, increasing to daily from October. This upgrade introduces Premium Economy service on the route, increasing premium seat availability by up to 80 per cent. The Dreamliner already operates on the Auckland–Sydney leg as part of Qantas’ QF3 and QF4 services to New York.
Executive Comments
Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International, highlighted the importance of the expansion:
“This year has already seen huge growth in New Zealand for Qantas Group, from the announcement of two new Qantas routes to the refurbishment of our Auckland lounge well underway and the upcoming launch of three more new trans-Tasman routes for Jetstar.
“Today we’re so pleased to offer even more Tasman flying for customers, which will mean Qantas will have the most frequency between Australia and New Zealand at one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
“This capacity boost represents almost 60,000 more seats compared to last summer, giving our customers additional choice and more convenience as well as supporting tourism and economic growth in both markets.”
Andrew Waddel, Tourism New Zealand Regional Director – Australia, welcomed the increased connectivity:
“It’s exciting to see even greater choice for Australian travellers who are heading across the Tasman over the holiday period. With an increase across all four major ports, there are even more options for travellers to kick start their Aotearoa New Zealand getaway.
“We know Australians are interested in exploring the country’s tranquil coastlines, world-class cycling trails and unique food and wine, and the longer days and warmer weather make it a fantastic time of year to experience it all and more.
“We welcome the increase in capacity from Qantas and look forward to our Australian friends experiencing all Aotearoa New Zealand has to offer.”
The expanded schedule will be in effect during the Australian holiday period from 15 December 2025 to 26 January 2026. All schedules are subject to change.
