Qantas, the renowned Australian airline, has unveiled plans for two exciting new services out of Auckland, New Zealand, further intensifying the ongoing trans-Tasman competition with Air New Zealand. These new routes, to Samoa and the Gold Coast, are set to begin in mid-2026, providing enhanced travel options for New Zealand passengers. Alongside these new services, Qantas will also introduce a state-of-the-art international lounge at Auckland Airport, marking a significant milestone in the airline's expansion strategy in New Zealand.
Starting from June 16, 2026, Qantas will launch direct flights from Auckland to both Samoa and the Gold Coast. These routes will operate three times per week, providing greater accessibility and convenience for Kiwi travelers. The addition of these services reflects Qantas' strategic commitment to enhancing its network in the region and offering passengers more travel choices.
For travelers in New Zealand, these new routes represent exciting opportunities to explore some of the most beautiful destinations in the Pacific. The Samoa route, in particular, will provide competition for Air New Zealand, which had previously dominated this market. Samoa Airways had ceased its Auckland to Apia service in 2022, leaving a significant gap in the market that Qantas will now aim to fill.
The Gold Coast route is expected to attract tourists and business travelers alike, with the popular Australian destination being a favorite for those seeking a blend of leisure and business travel. By introducing these new services, Qantas will further solidify its presence in the competitive trans-Tasman market.
Cam Wallace, the Chief Executive of Qantas International and Freight, emphasized the importance of Auckland as one of the airline's critical international hubs. Wallace highlighted that these new route announcements demonstrate the airline's significant investment in New Zealand, signaling a clear intention to grow its presence and enhance offerings for local travelers.
Wallace further noted that the launch of these services, combined with the introduction of a new Auckland lounge and a new direct flight to Perth, underscores Qantas' commitment to providing Kiwi travelers with more options and elevated travel experiences. These strategic moves are part of the airline's broader plan to position itself as a major player in the trans-Tasman market.
As part of its expansion in New Zealand, Qantas will also unveil a new international lounge at Auckland Airport. Scheduled to open on December 17, the new lounge will offer a premium experience for travelers departing on international flights. This new facility is designed to enhance the overall customer experience, providing passengers with comfortable seating, a variety of food and beverage options, and modern amenities designed to make travel more enjoyable and efficient.
The opening of the lounge is expected to elevate Qantas' offerings in Auckland, creating a more seamless and luxurious experience for passengers. The addition of a new lounge aligns with Qantas' ongoing efforts to provide premium services and attract high-end travelers who seek exceptional airport facilities alongside their flight services.
The introduction of Qantas' new Auckland to Samoa route represents the first significant competition that Air New Zealand will face on the Apia route since Samoa Airways ceased flying the route in 2022. This development signals an intensification of the rivalry between the two carriers, as Qantas continues to strengthen its position in New Zealand.
Air New Zealand and Jetstar have long been dominant players in the Auckland to Gold Coast market, but with Qantas now entering this space, the competition is expected to increase. As Qantas expands its offerings, it provides New Zealand travelers with more options for trans-Tasman travel, increasing competition and potentially driving down fares while improving the overall customer experience.
Qantas' move to introduce new flights to Samoa and the Gold Coast from Auckland aligns with the airline's broader goal to cater to the growing demand for trans-Tasman travel. Both routes are expected to serve a wide range of travelers, including those seeking leisure vacations, business trips, and visiting family and friends.
By entering these markets, Qantas provides New Zealanders with an additional choice of airline for their travel needs, fostering healthy competition and pushing all airlines in the region to improve their offerings. With a focus on convenience, flexibility, and customer service, Qantas aims to attract passengers who are looking for a premium travel experience at competitive prices.
In addition to these new routes, Qantas launched its inaugural Auckland to Perth service on Sunday, further expanding its network from New Zealand. This new route connects Auckland to one of Australia's most vibrant cities, providing New Zealanders with a direct connection to Perth's booming economy and leisure offerings.
The new Perth service, alongside the Gold Coast and Samoa routes, represents a strategic expansion of Qantas' international network in New Zealand. The airline's decision to increase its presence in New Zealand is part of a larger trend of Australian carriers seeking to capitalize on the growing demand for international travel in the region.
Qantas' continued expansion in New Zealand is a testament to the airline's focus on strengthening its market position and providing enhanced services for Kiwi travelers. With the launch of these new routes, the opening of a new lounge, and the introduction of direct flights to Perth, Qantas is clearly making significant strides in its efforts to capture more of the trans-Tasman market.
As competition between Qantas and Air New Zealand intensifies, travelers in New Zealand are likely to benefit from improved services, more competitive pricing, and a wider variety of travel options. Whether it is exploring the Gold Coast, visiting Samoa, or connecting to Perth, Qantas is working to ensure that New Zealanders have more choices than ever before.