Virgin Australia has announced that it has re-established a partnership with Air New Zealand via a trans-Tasman codeshare agreement.
The two airlines previously had a codeshare alliance that began in October 2010 and ended in October 2018.
Under the renewed agreement, Virgin Australia customers will be able to book Air New Zealand flights directly into Auckland Airport (AKL), Wellington International Airport (WLG), and Christchurch Airport (CHC), complementing Virgin Australia’s services to Queenstown Airport (ZQN).
However, Virgin Australia’s existing services between Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD), Melbourne Airport (MEL) and Brisbane Airport (BNE) to Queenstown will not be part of this alliance.
Velocity members will also be able to earn and redeem points, and eligible members and guests will have access to lounges when flying across the Tasman.
“Australians share our love of New Zealand and its national carrier and we can’t wait to reignite this partnership before the end of the year,” Virgin Australia Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer Alistair Hartley said in a statement.
“The regulators’ endorsement reflects the strong consumer benefits the partnership will unlock, including greater value, choice and loyalty rewards for travelers across the Tasman,” Hartley added.
On June 6, 2024, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) granted authorization to allow unilateral trans-Tasman code sharing arrangements between Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand.
“We are satisfied that the sharing of resources by these airlines will provide consumers with more ticketing and price options on trans-Tasman routes,” ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh said.
“Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand will also be able to jointly offer discounts and a range of marketing options to businesses, and eligible Virgin Australia customers will have access to Velocity Frequent Flyer program benefits and international lounge access,” Keogh said.
