Air New Zealand expands Hobart to Auckland flight capacity

Air New Zealand is expanding its direct seasonal service between Hobart and Auckland for the 2026-27 period. The route, which returns for its sixth season on 25 October, will feature an extended schedule running through the end of April to capture Easter and school holiday travel.

The expansion includes a 28 per cent increase in seats and a 27 per cent increase in flights compared to the previous year. For most of the season, the service will operate three times weekly, with a fourth flight added during the peak period from 27 February to 20 March 2027. The airline expects to operate up to 170 flights and provide more than 33,000 seats.

The growth was secured through a partnership involving Hobart Airport, Air New Zealand, and the Tasmanian Government via its Aviation Attraction Fund. Officials noted that the increased capacity reflects strong demand for direct travel between Tasmania and New Zealand, providing Tasmanians with easier access to international destinations via Auckland without transiting through Melbourne or Sydney.