Air New Zealand Launches Direct Flights from Christchurch to Tokyo, Singapore, and Perth

Air New Zealand's New Non-Stop Routes from Christchurch to Singapore, Tokyo Narita, and Perth Offer Travellers a Faster, Easier Way to Reach New Zealand's South Island from Late 2026.​​​​​​​

Air New Zealand has announced three new non-stop international routes from Christchurch Airport to Singapore, Tokyo Narita, and Perth, in what is being described as one of the most significant expansions of international air travel from New Zealand's South Island in recent years. The new services are scheduled to begin between late October and the end of November 2026, with tickets already on sale.

The announcement, made in partnership with Christchurch Airport, comes as the airline's Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet returns to full service following a period of grounding caused by global engine maintenance disruptions. The return of these widebody aircraft to the fleet has given Air New Zealand the capacity to re-establish long-haul routes that had been suspended for several years.​​​​​​​

The three new services will launch on the following dates:

Christchurch to Singapore (Changi): 28 October 2026 The first of the three routes to launch, the Christchurch–Singapore service offers passengers a direct gateway into one of the world's most connected aviation hubs. For travellers from the UK and Europe, Singapore Changi Airport provides seamless onward connections, making this route a highly practical option for reaching New Zealand's South Island without transiting through Auckland.

Christchurch to Tokyo Narita: 28 November 2026 The direct Tokyo service reconnects Japan and New Zealand's South Island for the first time since 2015. It opens the door for Japanese visitors to arrive directly into Canterbury — the gateway to Queenstown, the Southern Alps, and Fiordland — while offering New Zealanders a non-stop route into one of Asia's most dynamic cities.

Christchurch to Perth: 30 November 2026 The Perth route strengthens trans-Tasman and Australia–New Zealand ties, providing a convenient direct link between Western Australia and the South Island for both leisure and business travellers.

These new routes eliminate the need for South Island-bound travellers to connect through Auckland, cutting journey times and reducing the complexity of long-haul travel. For UK holidaymakers, the Singapore connection in particular offers a cleaner, faster routing into Christchurch — the perfect starting point for exploring Queenstown, Milford Sound, Mount Cook, and the Marlborough wine region.

With New Zealand's tourism demand rising strongly heading into 2026 and seats already on sale, travellers are advised to book early to secure the best availability on these highly anticipated new services.​​​​​​​

Ready to explore New Zealand's South Island? These new direct routes make getting there easier than ever. Speak to one of our flight experts at Crystal Travel today and secure your seat before they sell out.