Qantas has announced a substantial increase in flights across the Tasman Sea, boosting capacity between Australia and New Zealand by up to 20 percent during the peak summer holiday period of December 2025 and January 2026.
The airline will offer around 60,000 additional seats compared to the same period last year, providing travelers with greater flexibility and more options for their summer journeys.
Expanded Services on Key Routes
The additional flights will be distributed across several popular routes. Between Sydney and Auckland, Qantas will add up to six flights per week, representing a 16 percent increase. On the Sydney to Christchurch route, the airline plans to add up to seven flights weekly, a 47 percent rise. Sydney to Wellington will see up to five extra flights per week, increasing capacity by 31 percent.
From Melbourne, flights to Auckland will increase by up to seven per week, a 23 percent boost, while flights to Christchurch will rise by up to three per week, a 26 percent increase. The Melbourne to Queenstown route will see up to two additional flights weekly, increasing capacity by 50 percent. Brisbane to Queenstown will experience the largest increase, with up to three more flights per week, representing a 75 percent rise.
Overall, Qantas will operate more than 3.3 million seats across the Tasman between January 2025 and January 2026, supporting tourism growth in both Australia and New Zealand.
Introduction of Boeing 787 Dreamliner on Auckland-Brisbane Route
In addition to increased frequencies, Qantas will introduce its Boeing 787 Dreamliner on flights between Auckland and Brisbane starting August 2025. This new aircraft will bring Premium Economy to the route and increase premium seating options by up to 80 percent. Initially, the Dreamliner will operate three times per week, with daily services commencing in October 2025. This will be Qantas’ second 787 route between Australia and New Zealand, complementing the Auckland-Sydney service, which is part of the airline’s trans-Pacific flights to New York.
Statements from Qantas and Tourism New Zealand
Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International, said:
“This year has already seen significant growth in New Zealand for the Qantas Group, from launching new routes to refurbishing our Auckland lounge, with more trans-Tasman routes coming soon on Jetstar. We’re thrilled to offer more flights during one of the busiest travel periods, with nearly 60,000 extra seats compared to last summer. This provides our customers with more choice and convenience while supporting tourism and economic growth on both sides of the Tasman.”
Andrew Waddel, Regional Director of Tourism New Zealand in Australia, commented:
“It’s fantastic to see increased options for Australian travelers heading to New Zealand over the holiday period. With capacity rising across all four major ports, Australians can more easily explore Aotearoa’s beautiful coastlines, cycling trails, and unique food and wine experiences. The summer months offer perfect conditions, and we welcome Qantas’ expanded services to help visitors enjoy everything New Zealand has to offer.”
Seasonal Capacity Increase Details
These capacity increases will take effect during the Australian holiday period, from 15 December 2025 to 26 January 2026. The schedule includes a rise from 35 to up to 41 flights weekly on Sydney–Auckland, 14 to up to 21 flights weekly on Sydney–Christchurch, and 14 to up to 19 flights weekly on Sydney–Wellington.
Melbourne–Auckland flights will increase from 28 to up to 35 per week, Melbourne–Christchurch from 11 to up to 14, and Melbourne–Queenstown from 4 to up to 6 weekly flights. Brisbane–Queenstown will grow from 4 to up to 7 weekly flights.
Please note that schedules are subject to change.
