Air New Zealand has resumed its seasonal Auckland-Sunshine Coast service, running from now to 30 October 2026 with 16.8 per cent more capacity than last season, according to Sunshine Coast Airport.
Air New Zealand’s seasonal Trans-Tasman service between Auckland and the Sunshine Coast is back, launching three weeks earlier than last year and adding more than 2,890 seats across the season.
Flights operate from 5 June through to 30 October 2026, covering the peak winter travel period when Kiwi holidaymakers head to the Queensland coast and Australians look to cross the Tasman.
It marks the carrier’s 13th year connecting the two destinations.
What’s the schedule at a glance
The airline ramps up gradually, starting with two weekly services in early June before lifting to three flights per week during the peak winter stretch.
The 16.8 per cent capacity increase compared to last season translates to more than 2,890 additional seats across the route.
Where can travellers connect
For Australian travellers, the direct option feeds into Air New Zealand’s domestic network, with onward access to Auckland and 19 other New Zealand destinations.
Air New Zealand General Manager Short Haul and Domestic Lucy Hall said the seasonal service is a long-standing favourite.
“It’s fantastic to see Air New Zealand’s seasonal Sunshine Coast service return.
“It’s a favourite destination for many Kiwi holidaymakers, and families in particular love the convenience of a direct option.
“We’re also pleased to welcome our Sunshine Coast customers onboard, with easy access to Auckland and 19 other destinations via our New Zealand domestic network. It’s great to create more choice and flexibility for customers travelling on both sides of the Tasman.”
How the Sunshine Coast gateway is growing
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said the earlier start and added capacity would lift connectivity during the busy winter window.
“Starting three weeks earlier than last year and with increased capacity, the service strengthens connectivity during the peak winter travel period, providing more opportunities for visitors to experience the Sunshine Coast and for local travellers to access New Zealand and onward international destinations,” he said.
The airport expects to welcome more than 1.8 million passengers in FY26, a 69 per cent increase over a 10-year span compared to FY17.
It recently confirmed new international routes to Bali and Singapore, and forecasts passenger movements to exceed 2.4 million by 2030. The Sunshine Coast is also served by Alliance, Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin Australia.
For more information, visit airnewzealand.com.au
KARRYON UNPACKS: The earlier season opening and extra seats give the trade a wider winter selling window for both Sunshine Coast escapes and Tasman connections, with the New Zealand domestic network opening onward options for clients beyond Auckland.
