THE green light from the New Zealand Ministry of Transport is the last step in the approval process for Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand’s planned codeshare alliance, which will come into effect before the end of 2024.
The move, which was approved by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission in early June, sees the carriers partner up again for the first time since parting ways on less-than-friendly terms six years ago.
Under the deal, customers of Virgin Australia will be able to book seats on Air New Zealand flights between Australia and Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.
“Australians share our love of New Zealand and its national carrier and we can’t wait to reignite this partnership before the end of the year,” said Virgin Australia’s Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Alistair Hartley.
“The regulators’ endorsement reflects the strong consumer benefits the partnership will unlock, including greater value, choice and loyalty rewards for travellers across the Tasman.”
Air New Zealand Chief Transformation and Alliances Officer, Mike Williams, said the renewed relationship would make it even easier for more Australians to make the short hop across the ditch.
“We know our Aussie friends are a travel-hungry bunch, so whether it’s just a quick weekend trip to catch up with family or wanting to explore more of New Zealand, this partnership provides further options for more Australians to visit beautiful Aotearoa,” he said.
“We look forward to welcoming Virgin Australia customers onboard, offering them our exceptional Kiwi service, including food, our great selection of New Zealand wines, and our crew’s famous Manaaki (care).”
Virgin Australia’s existing services between Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne to Queenstown are not included in the deal, with the two airlines remaining competitors on this route.
The new agreement will also not affect Air New Zealand’s existing codeshare agreement with Qantas.
