From mid-December, Air New Zealand customers will be required to provide proof of either being double jabbed or a negative pre-departure test before boarding a domestic flight.
Air New Zealand chief executive Greg Foran said the change was an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer as Kiwis reconnect with family and friends.
"Delta has really upped the stakes. What once kept us safe is no longer enough, and we need an extra layer of protection. That's why we're taking a step further to keep our customers safe while allowing all Kiwis to fly."
The airline is aiming to have the mandate in place by 14 December 2021 for an initial period until 31 March 2022. It will apply to all passengers aged 12 and over travelling on an Air New Zealand aircraft within New Zealand. All vaccines and tests approved by the New Zealand Government will be accepted.
"For the most seamless experience, we're encouraging customers to download our Air New Zealand mobile app to make it easy as possible to connect their vaccination status in the Government's My Vaccine Pass with booking details, which will allow check-in."
Those not fully vaccinated will be able to provide a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours pre-departure - either from a community testing centre or their GP.
The change is in response to overwhelming feedback from customers and employees wanting more protection during travel.
"We're making this change so we can all travel our beautiful country over summer and fly with peace of mind that everyone onboard is seated shoulder-to-shoulder against COVID.
"We're doing it to protect vulnerable communities, for those with weakened immune systems or who can't get vaccinated, for the elderly in our rest homes and our wee tamariki at home.
"Customers will be flying this summer for a number of reasons, and it's our role to get them there. We don't want to leave anyone behind, which is why we're giving customers the choice to either be fully vaccinated or present a negative test."
