Air New Zealand will add more than 7,000 seats between Shanghai and Auckland over Chinese New Year, increasing capacity during one of the busiest travel periods for Chinese visitors to New Zealand.
From the 23rd of January to the 20th of February 2027, the airline will operate three additional return services a week between Shanghai and Auckland, bringing the weekly total to ten a week.
Air New Zealand Chief Commercial Officer Scott Wilkinson said the extra services respond to strong customer demand over the Chinese New Year period.
"We're being deliberate about where we add capacity, and Shanghai at this time of year is a fantastic opportunity. These extra flights will make it easier for more visitors to experience New Zealand at the height of summer and connect into our domestic network, supporting tourism and businesses across the country," said Wilkinson.
"More flights also create more cargo capacity at an important time of year, helping New Zealand exporters get more of their products into China over the Chinese New Year period. And it's not just about visitors coming to New Zealand."
The extra flights will also give customers travelling from New Zealand more choice, including those heading to China to spend Chinese New Year with family and friends, or travelling further afield.
Travellers will also continue to benefit from connectivity and choice between New Zealand and China, with the airline's partnership with Air China. During peak season, the two airlines operate up to 24 services a week between New Zealand and China via Shanghai and Beijing.
The Alliance provides access to more than 30 destinations across China through Air China's domestic network via Beijing and Shanghai.
More local news here
