en.Wedoany.com Reported - Air New Zealand and Air Chathams have expanded their interline partnership, offering travelers to and from the Chatham Islands a single through-ticket booking connecting to Air New Zealand's domestic network for the first time. The expanded partnership adds Whanganui to the network, following the launch of interline services via Whakatāne earlier this year.

Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Nikhil Ravishankar said partnerships of this kind play an important role in connecting New Zealanders and supporting regional development. The growing complexity and economics of regional aviation highlight the need for airlines and the wider industry to work together in new ways. Both Air New Zealand and Air Chathams are airlines with long histories, and both are committed to finding practical ways to strengthen the national aviation network, with seamless connections across their networks bringing convenience to customer travel while supporting regional economies.

Air Chathams Chief Executive Officer Duane Emeny said the expansion of this partnership is a significant milestone for the airline and the communities it serves. Regional communities are the heart of New Zealand, and this partnership aims to open up more opportunities for those communities, supporting local people, businesses, and visitors. Chatham Islands customers will, for the first time, be able to book a single through-ticket connecting to destinations across New Zealand, simplifying travel for residents, creating new opportunities for local businesses and tourism, and enabling more people to experience one of New Zealand's most unique destinations.

Associate Minister of Transport James Meager said aviation connectivity is critical to New Zealand's future. Strong regional air links are vital to New Zealand's economy and to the people who rely on them every day, connecting communities to jobs, education, healthcare, and tourism opportunities, while helping regional businesses reach markets across the country. This partnership is an example of the industry working together to strengthen regional connectivity, simplify travel, and support the long-term resilience of New Zealand's aviation network.

The announcement comes as the new terminal at Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport is completed, creating a modern gateway for the Chatham Islands that supports future growth in tourism, business, and regional connectivity. The expanded network connection between Air New Zealand and Air Chathams will launch on August 13, 2026.