Air New Zealand to Fly Auckland–Western Sydney Route from 2027
New Service Strengthens Trans-Tasman Ties and Backs Western Sydney’s Growth
First International Airline to Back Western Sydney Airport
Air New Zealand has announced a new route between Auckland and Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), launching in mid-2027. The service makes Air New Zealand the first trans-Tasman airline to confirm operations at Australia’s newest international gateway.
The move is part of the Minns Labor Government’s Western Sydney International Take-Off Fund, aimed at attracting global airlines to WSI. Air New Zealand joins Singapore Airlines, Qantas, and Jetstar in backing the new airport ahead of opening in late 2026.
Strengthening Ties and Expanding Access
“This is an exciting step for aviation in Australia,” said CEO Greg Foran. “We’re proud to connect New Zealand’s largest city with Western Sydney’s fast-growing economy.”
The new flights will complement Air New Zealand’s existing Sydney Kingsford Smith services, offering more options for Kiwi travellers. According to Nielsen, Sydney is the top destination for outbound New Zealand travellers, with 430,000 Kiwis visiting New South Wales in 2024 alone.
A Strategic Win for Western Sydney
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper welcomed the announcement. “This new route unlocks huge opportunities for local tourism, jobs and businesses,” he said.
“Growing visitor numbers means growing our economy.”
The new connection aligns with New South Wales’ plan to grow aviation capacity by 8.5 million seats, including recent wins at Sydney and Newcastle airports.
WSI Set to Become a World-Class Gateway
WSI is Australia’s first new major airport in 50 years. Construction is complete, and its modern terminal will offer 24-hour operations. The A$5.3 billion facility will eventually serve 10 million passengers annually, transforming how travellers move in and out of Sydney’s west.
“This strategic partnership will connect Western Sydney with Auckland – one of the Pacific’s busiest leisure hubs,” said WSI CEO Simon Hickey. “Our next-gen terminal and 24-hour flexibility give travellers more choice than ever.”
More to Come from Air New Zealand
This Auckland–WSI route comes just days after Air New Zealand announced a new Christchurch–Adelaide service starting October 27. That route will add 15,000 seats through March, expanding the airline’s Australian footprint even further.
With demand for trans-Tasman travel holding strong, Air New Zealand is clearly committed to convenience, connectivity, and customer experience – across both sides of the ditch.