March 21, 2025 | Press Release

In a landmark move to enhance connectivity between India and New Zealand, Star Alliance partners Air India and Air New Zealand have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), promising expanded travel options for passengers and paving the way for a potential direct flight in the future.

The MoU was signed at an event in Mumbai, attended by the Honourable Prime Minister of New Zealand, Mr. Christopher Luxon, alongside key dignitaries and airline executives. This agreement marks a strategic step forward in fostering stronger business, tourism, and educational exchanges between the two nations.

Expanding Travel Choices Across 16 Routes
One of the immediate outcomes of this partnership is the establishment of a new codeshare agreement covering 16 routes connecting India, Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand. Under this arrangement, travellers from India’s major metros—Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai—will be able to fly with Air India and seamlessly connect at Sydney, Melbourne, or Singapore onto Air New Zealand-operated flights to Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Queenstown.

This collaboration is expected to significantly ease travel planning, offering passengers greater flexibility and a wider range of options. Beyond convenience, the agreement is set to boost the visibility of India and New Zealand as premier tourism destinations, benefiting travellers and the industry alike.

A Direct Flight in the Making
Looking ahead, both airlines have committed to exploring the introduction of a direct India-New Zealand service by the end of 2028. This is subject to the availability of new aircraft and regulatory approvals. If materialised, the direct route would be a game-changer, eliminating the need for stopovers and significantly reducing travel time between the two nations.

Greg Foran, Chief Executive of Air New Zealand, emphasised the immense potential of the Indian market, citing the country’s rapidly expanding travel demand. “India represents a key growth market for Air New Zealand, and we are excited about the opportunity to enhance connectivity. This codeshare agreement is an important first step, offering more options for customers while we work towards a direct service.”

Strengthening Airline Partnerships
For Air India, this partnership aligns with its broader global expansion strategy. Campbell Wilson, Managing Director and CEO of Air India, expressed enthusiasm about deepening ties with Air New Zealand, following similar agreements with Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways. “We are delighted to strengthen our relationship with Air New Zealand. This partnership will not only simplify customer journeys but also help us develop traffic so that we may viably operate a non-stop service between India and New Zealand in the future.”

Tourism New Zealand Eyes Growth from India
Beyond airline connectivity, the MoU underscores Tourism New Zealand’s commitment to increasing Indian visitor numbers. Research indicates that 18 million people in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are actively considering travel to New Zealand. In 2023, the country welcomed over 80,000 Indian travellers, a 23% increase compared to 2019.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Rene de Monchy highlighted the significance of improved aviation links in driving inbound tourism. “Better connectivity will make it easier for Indian travellers to visit New Zealand and explore its stunning landscapes, film locations, and cultural attractions. An added bonus is that Indian tourists tend to visit during New Zealand’s off-peak months, aligning with their major holiday periods.”

A Win-Win for Trade, Tourism, and Connectivity
With India emerging as one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets, this codeshare agreement sets the stage for strengthened ties between the two countries. By offering more seamless travel options now and laying the groundwork for a future direct service, Air India and Air New Zealand are positioning themselves to meet the rising demand while contributing to the economic and tourism growth of both nations.

The codeshare flights will become available for booking progressively, subject to regulatory approvals, bringing a new era of connectivity between India and New Zealand.