Air New Zealand boosts summer flights to and from Tasmania

Air links between Tasmania and New Zealand are set to grow over the 2026-27 summer season.

Air New Zealand’s direct flights between Auckland and Hobart are to return with increased capacity, additional flights and an extended operating season.

More than 35,000 seats will be available during the 2026-27 season - a 28% increase year-on-year and a record for the route.

Growing international access is a key priority for Tourism Tasmania, and services like this play an important role in supporting the long-term growth of our visitor economy and strengthening Tasmania's connection to global markets, GM Sarah Kingston Clark said.

"The direct route across the Tasman is not only important for our key New Zealand market, it also opens up access from our largest international market of USA, providing a one-stop connection for major US cities.

"With flights resuming on October 25, it's a strong vote of confidence in Tasmania's growing international appeal and the experiences that continue to draw visitors from near and far." 

Hobart Airport said this will be the sixth season of Auckland-Hobart flights.

The seasonal service will operate three times a week for most of the season, with the airline adding a fourth flight per week for the peak period between February 27 and March 28. 

Hobart Airport Chief Executive Officer Norris Carter said strong demand for the ongoing seasonal service had enabled Hobart Airport and Air New Zealand, in partnership with the Tasmanian Government through the Aviation Attraction Fund, to secure the extended season and increased capacity planned for the next three years.

“This is a great result for Tasmanians and reflects the strong demand we’re seeing for direct travel between Tasmania and New Zealand,” Carter said.

“The service will now run from October 25 through to the end of April, which is great for Easter and will also capture more school holiday traffic."