Air NZ to Link 16M Globally, Domestically by 2025

Over the last 12 months, the airline has carried nearly 16 million passengers across its domestic and international network - helping connect New Zealanders with each other and the world and welcoming nearly one million visitors to our shores.

Air New Zealand Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Officer Kiri Hannifin says the airline's 11,500 team members take great pride and responsibility in the role they play connecting people with one another.

"This year has reminded us why we do what we do - connecting people, places, and possibilities. Every flight we operate, every smile from a cabin crew member, and every 'kia ora' we share at arrival gates across the world represents the heart of this airline, supporting Kiwis to be with those they love and bringing the world a little closer to Aotearoa.

"We're humbled by the trust placed in us by nearly 16 million travellers, and proud of our people who make these connections happen every day."

By the numbers - a year at 30,000 feet

  • Total passengers carried: 15,937,410
    • Domestic: 10,137,843
    • International: 5,799,567
  • Total flights operated: 166,406
    • Domestic: 138,323
    • International: 28,083
  • Most popular routes:
    • Overall: Auckland-Christchurch, with 1,596,782 passengers
    • International: Auckland-Sydney, with 634,698 passengers

Behind every journey is a story - and sometimes a little extra care. This year, 36,115 unaccompanied minors flew safely across the network, each one supported by Air New Zealanders every step of the way.

Supporting tourism and welcoming the world

Air New Zealand continues to play a vital role in New Zealand's tourism recovery and growth.

For the 12 months ended September 2025, 951,163 international visitors arrived in Aotearoa on Air New Zealand flights - representing around 30 percent of all international arrivals and equating to more than 2,500 visitors a day.

From visiting friends and whānau to exploring Aotearoa for the first time, these travellers help support communities, businesses, and regions across the country.

Growing loyalty numbers

Loyalty has also reached a new milestone, with Airpoints membership surpassing 5 million for the first time this year - a reflection of the strong connection New Zealanders continue to have with their national airline.

Looking ahead

From the busiest routes to the quiet moments of care on board, the past year has been defined by connection - between cities, countries, families, and cultures.

As Air New Zealand looks ahead, the focus remains the same: supporting millions of Kiwi travellers and tourists to get where they're going, safely, reliably, and with a sense of pride in representing Aotearoa around the world.

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