10 Best Airlines to New Zealand For Your 2025 Travels

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Planning a journey to New Zealand? With its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and endless outdoor adventures, New Zealand is the ultimate destination for travelers seeking something extraordinary. As someone who’s explored over 65 countries, I know how crucial it is to pick the right airline for a long-haul trip like this one.

For this guide, I analyzed flights from 100 major airports across the US, Canada, and Europe to bring you the top 10 airlines for flying to New Zealand in 2025. These airlines offer a winning combination of comfort, convenient routes, and value, helping you reach New Zealand’s main hubs—Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), and Christchurch (CHC)—with ease. Ready to kick off your Kiwi adventure in style? Here’s who to fly with for a smooth, enjoyable trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud!

Quick tip on how to find cheap flights to New Zealand

Looking for cheap flights to New Zealand right now? Before diving into all the airlines that fly to New Zealand, I first want to share a quick tip on how to save money on airfare.

For the past three years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $1,045 roundtrip fare from Boston to Australia.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best New Zealand flights in 2025.

1. 🇳🇿 Air New Zealand

• 🏠 Hub: Auckland (AKL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Skycouch, Premium Economy, Business Premier
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Airpoints, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Innovative seating options, Kiwi hospitality, award-winning wines, extensive domestic network
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the Economy Skycouch for couples or families to create a flexible space that converts to a couch or bed

Air New Zealand stands as the flag carrier and gateway to Aotearoa, offering direct flights to Auckland (AKL) from major U.S. cities like Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), and Vancouver (YVR), with easy one-stop options through Australia and Asia.

Their long-haul fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 777s is designed with travelers in mind. Economy passengers can upgrade their experience with the Economy Skycouch, which turns a row of seats into a cozy spot to stretch out. Premium Economy offers extra legroom and recline, while Business Premier takes it all the way with lie-flat beds and restaurant-quality meals.

What really makes Air New Zealand stand out? Their genuine Kiwi hospitality. Expect welcoming smiles, menus filled with New Zealand wines and fresh local ingredients, and an entertainment system packed with Kiwi films and TV shows to get you into the spirit before you even touch down. You will never get bored.

When it comes to perks, Airpoints loyalty program is refreshingly straightforward. You earn based on what you spend in New Zealand dollars, and you can also transfer points from U.S. cards like American Express to Star Alliance partners for even more travel options. 

Once you’re there, Air New Zealand’s domestic flights make it easy to reach 20 destinations across both islands, whether you are heading to the big cities or chasing adventures off the beaten path. 

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• Also worth reading: Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe
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2. 🇦🇺 Qantas

• 🏠 Hub: Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), Brisbane (BNE)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Qantas Frequent Flyer, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Exceptional safety record, innovative wellness program, Australian hospitality, spacious A380s
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book using Alaska Airlines miles for incredible value on premium cabins with minimal fees

When heading to a country that sees more sheep than humans, you’ll want an airline that understands the region perfectly. Qantas has been doing just that for over 100 years, connecting travelers to New Zealand through hubs like Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), and Brisbane (BNE) with multiple daily flights to Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Christchurch.

Depending on your route, you might find yourself on one of their Boeing 737s for the shorter hops or a wide-body Airbus A330, where the experience really steps up. Their Business Suites on select A330 flights come with lie-flat beds and direct aisle access, making even a few hours in the air feel like proper downtime.

Baggage policies are generous too. Economy travelers get up to 66 pounds of luggage, and Business Class passengers get 88 pounds, which is a win if you are packing hiking boots, ski gear, or golf clubs for your New Zealand adventures. Their inflight entertainment has over 1,500 hours of movies, shows, and destination guides to help pass the time.

What makes Qantas stand out? They take wellness seriously. Their long-haul program uses special lighting, timed meals, and stretching guides to help minimize jet lag, which makes a big difference when you land. Plus, they are one of the most environmentally forward airlines, with carbon offset options available and a long-term net-zero emissions goal.

3. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy Plus, Premium Plus, Polaris Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Direct flights from multiple US cities, Polaris lounges, generous premium baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use the United Excursionist Perk to add a free one-way flight within New Zealand or Australia

With New Zealand tourism hitting record highs in recent years, United Airlines has strengthened its position as the only US carrier offering year-round non-stop service to this island nation. Their direct flights from San Francisco to Auckland provide Americans with the most straightforward path to kiwi adventures, with seasonal service from Los Angeles creating additional options during peak travel periods.

You will usually find yourself on a modern Boeing 777-300ER or 787 Dreamliner if you are heading down under. These routes feature Polaris Business, United’s premium cabin with fully enclosed pod-style seating, direct aisle access, and lie-flat beds dressed in Saks Fifth Avenue bedding. The Premium Plus cabin is also a great middle option with wider seats, extra recline, better meals, and a quieter, more spacious cabin feel.

Packing heavy for your adventures? Good thing United is generous with bags. Economy passengers can check one bag up to 50 pounds, and Polaris travelers get two bags at 70 pounds each. MileagePlus elite members and co-branded credit card holders often score even more allowance, making it easier to bring everything you need.

United’s mobile app is also a huge plus for travelers. You can track your bags in real time, navigate big airports like San Francisco and Houston easily, and rebook flights if anything changes. 

• Read next: Hidden Gems in San Francisco

4. 🇸🇬 Singapore Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Singapore Changi (SIN)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First, Suites (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: KrisFlyer, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: World-class service, “Book the Cook” meal selection, spacious cabins, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use their “Stopover Paid” option to spend time in Singapore for just $40 on award tickets

While most travelers focus on New Zealand’s stunning landscapes, getting there can be part of the adventure with Singapore Airlines, which has maintained its prestigious 5-star Skytrax rating for over a decade. Their routes to Auckland and Christchurch offer an appealing alternative gateway with the opportunity to experience Singapore on the way.

Singapore Airlines flies Airbus A350s and Boeing 777s to New Zealand, with cabins designed for long-haul comfort. Their Business Class features handcrafted leather seats that convert to fully-flat beds, while Premium Economy offers an impressive 38-inch pitch with calf and foot rests.

When it comes to food, the airline’s renowned “Book the Cook” service lets premium cabin passengers pre-select from an extensive menu of dishes, including Western classics, Asian specialties, and healthy options. Even Economy dining impresses with three meal choices and complimentary Singapore Sling cocktails.

What truly sets Singapore Airlines apart is their legendary service culture. Their cabin crew undergo the industry’s longest training, learning everything from wine appreciation to cultural etiquette.  Their KrisFlyer program also offers solid value for award redemptions and frequent sales that slash miles requirements by 20 to 30 percent. With their focus on comfort, service, and seamless connections, Singapore Airlines offers one of the most pleasant ways to reach New Zealand from the U.S.

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Singapore

5. 🇦🇪 Emirates

• 🏠 Hub: Dubai (DXB)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Emirates Skywards
• ☕ Perks: Chauffeur service, onboard lounge, shower spas, generous entertainment options
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for fifth freedom flights between Sydney and Christchurch to experience Emirates luxury on a short hop

If you are the kind of traveler who thinks the journey should be just as exciting as the destination, Emirates is hard to beat. Their service to Auckland and Christchurch runs through their glittering Dubai International Airport hub, turning what could be a grueling long-haul slog into a seriously elevated experience.

You could be flying on their flagship Airbus A380 or a Boeing 777, depending on your route. Economy already feels a step above with roomy seats and endless entertainment options. Premium Economy, newly rolled out across select routes, gives you even more space, better dining, and a quieter cabin. Meanwhile, Business and First Class are where Emirates really flexes, with lie-flat beds, personal minibars, and if you are lucky enough to be on the A380, an actual inflight bar to stretch your legs and socialize at 40,000 feet.

The inflight experience is a major part of what makes Emirates special. Their ice entertainment system packs over thousands of movies and shows, which means you will never get bored. The dining options are no slouch either, with regionally inspired menus, fine wines, and plenty of treats available throughout the flight.

Emirates Skywards also delivers decent value, especially when you catch one of their transfer bonuses from credit card partners. Their Dubai stopover program is another bonus, letting you explore the desert city’s skyscrapers and souks before continuing on to the green landscapes of New Zealand.

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6. 🇭🇰 Cathay Pacific

• 🏠 Hub: Hong Kong (HKG)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Asia Miles, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Excellent business class, renowned service, award-winning lounges, quality dining
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book Premium Economy and use Asia Miles for last-minute upgrades to business when load factors are low

Looking to break up the long trip to New Zealand with a seriously good stopover? Cathay Pacific has you covered. Their daily flights to Auckland connect easily through their sleek Hong Kong hub, giving travelers a chance to stretch their legs (and maybe squeeze in some dim sum) before continuing on to the Southern Hemisphere.

On the New Zealand route, you will usually be flying on a modern Airbus A350-900, featuring one of the best Business Class seats in the sky, with reverse herringbone seating that will save you from jumping over your neighbors. Meanwhile, their Premium Economy cabin hits that perfect sweet spot too, with wider seats, more recline, and better meals that make the upgrade well worth it.

Where Cathay Pacific really shines is their service. Their “Service Straight From the Heart” philosophy means the crew somehow manage to anticipate what you need before you even ask. Whether it is a second drink, extra blanket, or help with connections, everything is delivered with genuine warmth rather than forced formality.

For perks, Asia Miles program is another plus, offering solid award redemption options, especially if you are transferring points from American Express or Citi. Add in their fantastic lounges in Hong Kong, and Cathay Pacific turns what could be a marathon journey into something you might actually look forward to.

7. 🇦🇺 Virgin Australia

• 🏠 Hub: Brisbane (BNE), Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Economy X, Business
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Velocity Frequent Flyer
• ☕ Perks: Fun cabin atmosphere, Economy X extra legroom, premium lounges, all-inclusive fares
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Join Velocity for free and score a status match from your US airline program to unlock perks right away

Virgin Australia brings a breath of fresh air to New Zealand travel with their fun, relaxed approach to flying. Their flights from Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne connect to key Kiwi cities like Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch, making it easy to add New Zealand to your adventure without extra hassle.

You will fly across the Tasman on their updated Boeing 737 fleet, which feels surprisingly premium for a narrowbody experience. Economy travelers can upgrade to Economy X for a few extra bucks, getting more legroom, priority boarding, and guaranteed overhead bin space. Meanwhile, Business Class offers wide, plush recliners with personalized service that feels closer to international long-haul quality than you might expect on a short flight.

What makes Virgin Australia special? They’ve perfected that laid-back Aussie charm that makes you feel like you’re flying with friends rather than staff. Their genuine warmth and humor create a cabin atmosphere that’s notably different from more traditional airlines — you might actually find yourself enjoying the flight rather than just enduring it.

The Velocity Frequent Flyer program is surprisingly U.S.-friendly too. If you have status with airlines like United, Delta, or American, you can often match it over and score lounge access, better seats, and faster security lines without having to start from scratch. 

• Read next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Australia

8. 🇶🇦 Qatar Airways

• 🏠 Hub: Doha (DOH)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Qsuite), First (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Privilege Club, part of Oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Award-winning Qsuites, exceptional service, generous baggage allowance, premium dining
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book their “Discover Australia and New Zealand” fare for multi-city trips at significant savings

Qatar Airways is not just another Middle Eastern carrier, but a true premium player in global aviation. They offer daily flights to Auckland through their ultra-modern Doha hub, operating one of the world’s longest routes. 

What makes Qatar stand out is their serious commitment to comfort. They send some of the best aircraft in the sky on this route, like the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777-200LR, both featuring their game-changing Qsuites. These private pods come with closing doors, adjustable panels for couples, and even quad seating if you are traveling with family or friends. Even in Economy, you get wider seats and thoughtful touches that make a long flight feel much easier. Baggage allowances are generous too, with up to 50 pounds in Economy and 70 pounds in Business.

Hungry mid-flight? Qatar’s Business Class offers flexible dine-on-demand service with restaurant-quality meals whenever you feel like eating. Economy travelers are well looked after too, with multiple hearty meals and snack pantries you can raid between services.

The Privilege Club loyalty program makes it easy for U.S. travelers to rack up points, with transfer options from American Express and Citi. Keep an eye out for their off-season promotions too — they often slash award flight costs by up to 40 percent during January and February.

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9. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Los Angeles (LAX)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Main Cabin, Comfort+, Premium Select, Delta One
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles, part of SkyTeam alliance
• ☕ Perks: Reliable operations, free messaging, Delta Sky Club access, new A350 cabins
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Look for flash SkyMiles sales that can reduce award costs to New Zealand by up to 30%

Delta Air Lines is America’s most reliable carrier for that long journey down under, offering service to Auckland from its Los Angeles hub with convenient connections from across the US. Their partnership with Virgin Australia extends your reach throughout New Zealand once you arrive, creating a seamless travel experience from departure to final destination.

Delta flies their flagship Airbus A350-900 on this route, featuring their latest Delta One Suites. Each suite comes with a privacy door, a fully flat bed, direct aisle access, and clever storage compartments to keep your space organized. Premium Select offers a real upgrade too, with wider seats, more recline, and better dining than standard Economy.

Onboard, Delta keeps things comfortable across all cabins. We’re talking free messaging on every flight, access to the latest movies, and upgraded meal options even in Main Cabin. Business travelers enjoy premium bedding from Westin, noise-canceling headphones, and top-notch dining designed by celebrity chefs.

Their SkyMiles program is a smart pick for New Zealand trips too. Flash sales pop up regularly, sometimes knocking 30 percent off the miles you need for an award ticket. Luggage allowances are generous, with up to 50 pounds in Main Cabin and 70 pounds in Delta One. And if you are passing through a hub city, Delta Sky Clubs offer a great spot to relax with free food, drinks, and WiFi before your flight.

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• For more reading: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Los Angeles

10. 🇨🇦 Air Canada

• 🏠 Hub: Vancouver (YVR)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Signature Class (Business)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Aeroplan, part of Star Alliance
• ☕ Perks: Vancouver stopover option, Signature Suite dining, maple-inspired service, modern fleet
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book “Latitude” economy fares for free same-day changes and upgrades using eUpgrade credits

Air Canada might be the sleeper hit for getting to New Zealand, especially if you’re coming from North America. Their Vancouver hub is perfectly positioned for flights to the South Pacific, and they’ve got this whole partnership thing with Air New Zealand down to a science.

The airline flies their modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to Auckland, featuring their updated Signature Class with pod-style seating arranged for direct aisle access. Their Premium Economy cabin provides a significant upgrade from standard Economy with wider seats, generous legroom, and enhanced meal service. Even regular Economy includes thoughtful touches like complimentary wine with dinner and individual entertainment screens.

What makes Air Canada stand out is the warm, Canadian-style hospitality. Their menus spotlight Canadian ingredients, maple-inspired treats, and a great selection of local wines. Baggage policies are traveler-friendly too, with 50 pounds included in Economy and 70 pounds for Signature Class.

Their Aeroplan program used to be a pain, but they fixed a lot of issues in the 2020 revamp. Now you can actually find award seats when you want them, and they’ve ditched those ridiculous fuel surcharges that used to make redemptions basically pointless. For North Americans who want their New Zealand journey to be part of the vacation rather than just a painful necessity to endure, Air Canada delivers surprisingly good value and comfort.

• Read next: Cheap Flights from Toronto

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Airlines to Travel to New Zealand

Planning your trip to the Land of the Long White Cloud? These frequently asked questions about the best airlines to fly to New Zealand will help you plan your trip!

What airline is best to fly to New Zealand?

The best airline to fly to New Zealand largely depends on various factors. This includes your departure location, budget, service preferences, and loyalty program affiliations. Here are some airlines that are popular choices for flights to New Zealand:

1. Air New Zealand: As the flag carrier of New Zealand, Air New Zealand offers extensive routes both domestically within the country and internationally. They are known for their Kiwi hospitality, innovative in-flight entertainment, and have won numerous awards for their service.
2. Qantas: Australia’s national carrier offers frequent flights to New Zealand from various Australian cities. They are known for their premium service and extensive frequent flyer program.
3. Virgin Australia: Another major Australian airline, Virgin Australia offers competitive fares and a modern fleet for its routes to New Zealand.
4. Emirates: If you’re flying from Europe, the Middle East, or other parts of Asia, Emirates offers flights to New Zealand with a stopover in Dubai. They are known for their luxurious service, especially in business and first-class.
5. Singapore Airlines: For those in Southeast Asia or connecting through Singapore, this airline offers excellent service and connections to New Zealand.
6. Cathay Pacific: Based in Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific provides another option for travelers from Asia.
7. United Airlines and American Airlines: For travelers from the U.S., both airlines offer direct flights to New Zealand.
8. Fiji Airways: Provides an option with a stopover in Fiji. This can be an added bonus for those looking to explore another Pacific island en route.
9. LATAM: For those traveling from South America, LATAM offers flights with a stopover in Santiago, Chile.

Which airlines fly direct to New Zealand?

Several airlines offer direct flights to New Zealand, including Air New Zealand, Qantas, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines. The availability of direct flights often depends on the departure city and the specific airport in New Zealand you’re heading to.

Where is the best place to fly to New Zealand?

Auckland International Airport is the primary international gateway and is often considered the best place to fly to when visiting New Zealand. However, Wellington and Christchurch also have international airports that are serviced by some of the best airlines to fly to New Zealand.

Is Qantas or Air New Zealand better?

Both Qantas and Air New Zealand have their strengths. Air New Zealand is renowned for its in-flight service and has won numerous awards for its premium economy and business class. Qantas, on the other hand, boasts a vast network and is known for its safety record. The choice often comes down to personal preference and specific route considerations.

Which New Zealand premium economy is best?

Air New Zealand’s premium economy is frequently lauded as one of the best. It offers spacious seating, enhanced meal options, and priority boarding. However, other airlines serving New Zealand, like Singapore Airlines and Emirates, also offer competitive premium economy experiences.

Are there direct flights from Europe to New Zealand?

As of 2024, there are no direct, non-stop flights from Europe to New Zealand. The distance between Europe and New Zealand is vast, and flights typically require at least one stopover. Common stopover points for flights from Europe to New Zealand include:

1. Middle Eastern Hubs: Cities like Dubai (served by Emirates) and Doha (served by Qatar Airways) are common stopover points. For instance, Emirates operates flights from various European cities to Auckland with a stopover in Dubai.
2. Asian Hubs: Cities such as Singapore (served by Singapore Airlines), Hong Kong (served by Cathay Pacific), and Bangkok (served by Thai Airways) are also popular transit points for flights en route to New Zealand.
3. Australian Cities: Some travelers from Europe might fly to an Australian city like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. And from there, they can take a shorter flight to New Zealand.

How long is the flight to New Zealand from the US?

Flight durations vary based on the departure city, but flights from the West Coast, such as Los Angeles or San Francisco, typically take around 12-13 hours.

Are there budget airlines that service New Zealand?

Yes, several budget airlines, including Jetstar and Virgin Australia, offer routes to and within New Zealand. While they might not be the best airlines to fly to New Zealand in terms of luxury, they provide affordable options for travelers.

What’s the best time to book flights to New Zealand?

It’s generally advisable to book flights several months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during New Zealand’s peak tourist season, which is during their summer months (December to February).

Do airlines offer deals or discounts for flights to New Zealand?

Absolutely! Many airlines offer promotional fares or early bird discounts for flights to New Zealand. It’s a good idea to sign up for newsletters or fare alerts from airlines and travel agencies to stay informed.

What airlines currently fly to NZ?

Several airlines fly to New Zealand, including the following:

1. Air New Zealand: The flag carrier of New Zealand, offering extensive domestic and international routes.
2. United Airlines: Provides routes from the U.S. to New Zealand.
3. Lufthansa: Connects European cities to New Zealand.
4. Air Canada: Offers flights from Canada to New Zealand.
5. Qantas: The Australian airline has routes connecting Australia to New Zealand.
6. American Airlines: Provides certain routes from the U.S. to New Zealand.
7. Virgin Atlantic: Connects some cities to New Zealand.
8. Turkish Airlines: Offers routes from Turkey and its other destinations to New Zealand.
9. Fiji Airways: Connects Fiji and other Pacific destinations to New Zealand.
10. Hawaiian Airlines: Provides routes from Hawaii to New Zealand.
11. LATAM Airlines Group: Connects South American cities to New Zealand.

Additionally, there are other airlines like AirAsiaX, Air Caledonie International, and Air China that have operated flights to New Zealand at various times.

New Zealand Airlines in 2025: Recap

Embarking on a journey to the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand is an adventure in itself. The airline you choose can significantly enhance this experience. From the luxurious amenities of premium carriers to the budget-friendly options that don’t compromise on comfort, there’s a flight for every type of traveler.

As you plan your trip, consider the best airlines to fly to New Zealand to ensure a memorable voyage. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of adventure sports, the serenity of untouched nature, or the rich cultural tapestry of the Maori heritage, starting your journey with a top-notch airline sets the tone for an unforgettable Kiwi experience.