Update on domestic Air New Zealand flights to and from Christchurch

Domestic flights into and out of Christchurch this evening are operating close to normal schedule times.

In addition, two extra return services are operating between Auckland and Christchurch this evening utilising a 747-400 jumbo jet and a 737-300 to help clear passengers affected by flight cancellations this afternoon as a result of the earthquakes in the region.

Together the 747 and 737 return services make another 1,000 seats available between Auckland and Christchurch.

Two A320 aircraft that diverted to Wellington and Dunedin respectively when Christchurch airport closed are also continuing their journeys, delivering passengers to their original destination of Christchurch by the end of the evening.

Customers not able to be moved this evening will be booked onto other services tomorrow.

Details of tonight’s additional services are:

Flight number                                                       Departure
NZ6723                   Auckland to Christchurch             1835
NZ6724                   Christchurch to Auckland             1915
NZ6863                   Auckland to Christchurch             2130
NZ6804                   Christchurch to Auckland             2350

Air New Zealand is also giving passengers affected by the earthquakes extra flexibility to amend their bookings. Passengers ticketed prior to today for travel to or from Christchurch up to and including Friday 30 December will be able to bring their travel forward or defer it for up to 12 months. Those who no longer have a need to travel to Christchurch can also switch to another domestic destination. Relevant terms and conditions apply.

Customers wanting information about Air New Zealand’s regular schedule this evening should consult the arrivals and departure information on www.airnz.co.nz