The new routes from Christchurch to Singapore, Tokyo and Perth are part of an agreement with Christchurch Airport to boost the South Island's international connectivity.
Air New Zealand chief executive Nikhil Ravishankar announced the new routes alongside Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at tourism event TRENZ in Auckland today.
The airline has been reducing flights due to soaring jet fuel costs, but it had flagged it would soon have more aircraft onboard after ongoing engine issues were resolved.
"As New Zealand's national airline we think about connectivity at a country level - where we can help open up the greatest value and opportunities for customers, for regions, and for the economy.
"With aircraft returning to service, we're now in the fantastic position of being able to grow again, and we are delighted this is going to happen in the South Island."
Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a long-term partnership to improve long term planning and sustainable growth.
"Seeing multiple new international widebody services launch from Christchurch builds on the growth already happening across our international network and creates major opportunities for freight exporters, the tourism sector and our wider economy," he said.
"It reflects our strong partnership with Air New Zealand and our shared focus on growing international connectivity for the South Island.
"New routes don't happen overnight. They take sustained effort, collaboration, and giving airlines and travellers even more reasons to choose Christchurch."
'Can't wait to buy ticket'
Budding travellers were onboard with the direct flights. Muy Muy restaurant venue manager Nipuna Warnakulasuriya told RNZ he was excited.
"As soon as I saw that on Facebook this morning I took a screenshot and sent it to my partner. I can't wait to buy my ticket from Christchurch to Toyko," he said.
"Earlier you had to fly to Auckland but now you can just fly directly. When you have kids one less transit makes a big difference and plus as a business I think that will bring in more people. People will, when they land in New Zealand, bring that extra money directly to Christchurch."
One Christchurch local said the southern city would appeal to holidaymakers.
"I think there's been an uptick in tourists - definitely - and lots of new things have been recently finished the stadium, Parakiore, lots of cool things to do here," he said.
"I'm all for the Toyko one. We went to Japan a couple of years ago but it was through Auckland, so it would be slightly more convenient."
Another said she would definitely take advantage of the flights.
"If I can save myself from having to buy the extra ticket to Auckland Airport and I can just fly straight out from Christchurch that's definitely going to be a benefit to me. I think it's a great idea."
Last week, the airline announced it was preparing to take a big financial hit due to soaring jet fuel costs and it was looking at cost-cutting. It had already made cuts to its flight schedule and lifted ticket prices earlier this year.
But the airline flagged more aircraft would soon be onboard with all existing Boeing 787 aircraft expected to return to service by late June, and all Airbus aircraft by 2027.
Engine maintenance issues and delays has hampered fleet availability for Air New Zealand in recent years.
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the agreement between Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport reflected a focus that would strengthen direct connections and open up opportunities for the South Island.
"With both Air New Zealand and Christchurch Airport represented on the Prime Minister's recent Singapore mission, this announcement is effectively the first cab off the rank, showing how stronger international relationships can translate into real opportunities for business and tourism for Christchurch, the South Island and New Zealand exporters."
Flights are on sale from today.
